The Mardy Fish Children’s Foundation’s second season of middle school club tennis began the week of April 1st. Participating schools are Sebastian River Middle School, Storm Grove Middle School, Gifford Middle School, and Oslo Middle School.
Middle School Club Tennis is now an available after-school activity at all four Indian River County Public Middle Schools this Spring, thanks to the Mardy Fish Children’s Foundation.
The season swung into motion the first week of April for participants at Sebastian River Middle School, Storm Grove Middle School, Gifford Middle School, and Oslo Middle School. Teams include singles and doubles, boys and girls and operate with a No Cuts Policy.
The MFCF had the opportunity to help 30% of the players involved by awarding scholarships as needed. The Foundation covers the coaches’ stipend, team equipment as needed, end of season party and prizes for the kids. Each team is coached by a USPTA certified pro or assistant; coaches include Andy Stanfield-GMS, Brad Tulenko and Mark Hanlon-OMS, Mike Daugherty-SGMS, and Fran Stewart-SRMS. Support from team moms include Karen Schlitt, Tiffani Buckley, and Anne Warner.
The team at Sebastian River Middle School is extra appreciative this season as the Mardy Fish Children’s Foundation provided the school with new nets and net posts for all four of their tennis/multi-purpose courts. The Foundation looks to improve courts at the other school’s home sites in the future. “We are all thrilled to have helped get a quad middle school league started in Indian River County.” “This middle school program provides over 60 kids with a positive, healthy and safe activity to participate in after school, that is what it’s all about.” Said MFCF Director of Tennis, Kristen Wilson.
The Mardy Fish Children’s Foundation gives a big thank you to Quail Valley (Sam Garcia), The Boulevard (Rodmans), Hidden Palms and The Vero Beach Tennis Club for donating courts and supporting the kids of Indian River County.