Introducing Tennis into Iowa Public Schools

The Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) holds an annual conference every year in Iowa. More than 70 physical education instructors turned out for this year’s event at Johnston High School last month. The event includes booths, speakers and break-out sessions on numerous topics related to physical health in the schools. USTA Iowa’s John Terpkosh attended to promote tennis. 

“There are two major building blocks for introducing and developing tennis for students across Iowa; schools and parks,” said John Terpkosh, USTA Iowa Tennis Service Representative. “Starting this foundation early is a big advantage to school tennis and pays the most dividends.”

Physical Education teachers are looking for new and engaging ways to captivate students. The USTA is hoping with the right tools and resources, teachers will be able to have confidence when introducing tennis in the classroom. 

A comprehensive USTA study of 8th graders showed that tennis benefits kids in numerous ways including; good grades, problem solving skills, physical health and self-confidence. The USTA has numerous tools for K-12 P.E. teachers, as well as middle and high school coaches.

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