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Serving Up a Summer of Tennis Fun!

AST players cooling off with popsicles at the Urban Village Rec!
AST players cooling off with popsicles at the Urban Village Rec!

Summer in San Diego means sunshine, long days, and for us at Youth Tennis San Diego (YTSD) -

busy tennis courts, dedicated coaches, and a whole lot of smiling kids! This year, we’re proud to offer over 30 tennis summer programs across the city—from South Bay to City Heights to Tierrasanta—all programs are offered at little or no cost, to all participants. Each and every day, our community courts come alive with tennis balls/rackets and kids building their skills through tennis drills, matches, and fun-filled games. More than improving backhands and serves—our community programs give kids a safe, active, and positive space to grow all summer long.



In City Heights at the Urban Village Rec, we welcome players from elementary to high school ages — we even host free weekly tennis clinics for our parents! After every lesson, kids can cool off in our education room - grab a snack or popsicle, and enjoy our cozy classroom where youth can play on computers, dive into board games, create art, or face off in a spirited game of chess.


Over in Tierrasanta, at Canyon Hills High School, our summer sessions focus on friendship and preparation. Students are meeting new friends and training hard for their upcoming tennis seasons. YTSD instructor, Alexis Miramontes, has seen impressive growth—not just from returning players, but also from newcomers picking up a racket for the first time. “It’s amazing how many students showed up this year ready to learn,” she says. “They’re building skills and confidence every day.” For the incoming freshman this year, the community program has provided an opportunity to meet future classmates, teammates and coaches - potentially making the first day of high school this fall a little less intimidating.



Down in South Bay, our After School Tennis (AST) programs are also in full swing! With many of our players additionally competing in the summer Junior Team Tennis (JTT) League, proudly showcasing our YTSD team, the “Ball Breakers.” Instructor Santiago Jaquez states the team’s mindset has shifted: many of his players used to see the weekly lessons as just fun. Now, every session feels like a real opportunity to improve. They’re motivated to win their next JTT match, and that drive is fueling their progress on the courts!

AST instructor, Santiago Jaquez with his AST players at Sunbow Park in Chula Vista
AST instructor, Santiago Jaquez with his AST players at Sunbow Park in Chula Vista
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While tennis is at the heart of all that we do, our mission runs deeper. We’re creating a space where kids can:


  • Stay active and healthy all summer long

  • Connect with peers from across the city

  • Build confidence, discipline, and teamwork

  • Feel seen, supported, and celebrated


And the real magic? It happens between the points—when a shy beginner lands their first solid hit, when teammates cheer each other on, and when friendships form across neighborhoods and backgrounds.


This summer, the positive impact of our programs has stretched far beyond the community courts. From our incredible instructors to our passionate young athletes, this season has been a reminder of just how important our community programs are. One serve, one smile, one high-five at a time, we are making a difference each and every day! Thank you to everyone who supports our AST programs - together as a community, we are teaching the fundamentals of tennis, building player self confidence on and off the courts, and growing a love for the game! And our kids will tell you, summer has been FUN!

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For more information about our community programs, please email Lvosburgh@ytsd.org


💛 We Can’t Do This Without You

Every day, YTSD brings tennis, mentorship, and educational support to children who need it most, at no cost to their families. These programs aren’t just about sport. They’re about building confidence, character, and opportunity. But none of it is possible without the generosity of supporters like you.


🌟 Ways to Give and Make an Immediate Impact

  • Site Sponsor – $10,000

    • Fully fund a YTSD program site for an entire year—impacting dozens of youth with consistent instruction, equipment, and academic support.

  • Session Sponsor – $5,000

    • Sponsor a 10–12 week season of tennis and life skills training for 20 children in an under-resourced community.

  • Scholarship Sponsor – $1,000

    • Give one child a full year of tennis coaching, tutoring, and equipment—opening doors to lasting transformation.

  • General Sponsor – $1–$999

    • Every gift counts. Your donation helps provide the gear, books, and resources that make our mission real for every student.


🎾 Your Support Changes Lives

When you give, you’re not just donating, you’re investing in healthier kids, stronger communities, and brighter futures.

👉 Donate Now and help us continue serving the youth who need us most. Your support will be proudly recognized at our facility and on our website!


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