Southern Boone Area YMCA Creates Junior Tennis Program

Baumchen also credited Southern Boone Area YMCA Branch Director Kip Batye for connecting him with Mertensmeyer to get the new program off the ground. Mushonga traveled to Ashland to view a clinic in person and better learn how he might be able to help keep the momentum.

“These kids have never played tennis before,” Mushonga said. “For now, it’s all about gaining interest and for kids to have fun on the court. That’s the main goal. That’s how we’re going to be able to build a program out of it. There is a lot of potential. They are right next to Columbia and Jefferson City. That’s a big advantage for the city.”

Mushonga noted the city of Ashland has strong historical ties to tennis. The Southern Boone Area YMCA launched a winter tennis program before beginning the partnership with USTA, and about 20 kids participated. Of those 20, Mushonga said only one was in attendance when he visited Ashland this summer, further demonstrating the high level of interest.

“It’s really exciting,” Mushonga said. “I met a kid who was 11 and he was like, ‘My parents have looked for basketball, for soccer. I’ve tried all that. When YMCA had tennis, I just jumped in.’ He loves it. He’s just an amazing kid. And those are the things we’re looking for — just to give these kids opportunities.

“In tennis, we’re supporting the healthy lifestyle. That’s one thing we are getting out of this. I hope this program keeps going up. Everybody is getting involved with it. The community is involved. It’s going to be easy for that area to be successful in whatever they plan to do in the future.”

Baumchen said funds from the $1,000 section-level grant have gone toward program advertising and supplies. Each participating child received a tennis racquet. Baumchen also provided the volunteer coaches tools to better equip them in educating players.

Mushonga said he next hopes to get tennis into Ashland schools’ PE curriculum. Baumchen echoed that. Forming tennis teams at Southern Boone High School is one of Baumchen’s long-term objectives.

“My ultimate goal is to have a youth program where they sign up, have a practice schedule and tournaments are included with their signup here at the YMCA,” Baumchen said. “That way they dive into the competitive nature of tennis. That’s definitely where we want to grow. That way — when they’re competing at this young of an age and continue to develop their skills — hopefully by high school they have that opportunity.”