Free tennis programs in Lexington build community, boost youth participation

The community of Lexington in southern Nebraska offers free tennis lessons for kids who are pre-school age through sixth grade. The programs are offered three times a year when tennis can still be played outside.

“Our spring program this year was held once a week and had nearly 125 kids participating,” said Zack Follmer, recreation coordinator for the City of Lexington.

A five-week program will be held in the summer followed by a four-week session in the fall. All of the youth programs are run out of the Lexington Racquet Center, a city-owned and operated facility.

The upcoming summer program will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 30 through July 30. Racquets are provided for those who don’t have one.

The free programs are staffed by Follmer and Jake Saulsbury, City of Lexington parks and recreation manager.

Some part-time recreation attendants and Lexington High School tennis players help out as well.

“We utilize our high school tennis players,” Follmer said. “In lieu of practice one day a week, they assist with the youth programs by working with the kids and helping with drills.

"It’s a great opportunity for them to volunteer and give back to the community.”

For more information on the tennis programs, contact Zack Follmer at zfollmer@cityoflex.com.

Check out a previous USTA Nebraska story about tennis in Lexington here.