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Tricks, Treats & Tennis!!
To celebrate the spooky season and the success of our fall session of community programs, Youth Tennis San Diego (YTSD) hosted its annual Halloween-themed Tennis Festival at Barnes Tennis Center!
This past Saturday, October 24th, youth of all ages and skill levels participating in our community programs were invited to enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of tennis, games, costumes, and Halloween surprises!
For many of our players, this was their first time stepping onto the courts at Barnes Tennis Center!
As many of our community programs take place at local schools, where portable tennis nets transform playgrounds and outdoor spaces into unique tennis environments. The opportunity to experience a full tennis center, meet players from other community programs, and take part in Halloween-themed activities made the day especially memorable.
With more than 80 players and families joining the fun, alongside our incredible team of community coaches and volunteers, the courts were filled with laughter, smiles, and plenty of Halloween spirit!
Kids and coaches dressed in costume, and players took on spooky challenges like “Spider Crawl,” “Dungeon,” and “Witch’s Brew.” Between the giggles, forehands, backhands, and volleys, the festival brought together everything we love about youth sports - movement, friendship, encouragement, and the freedom to simply have fun!
At Youth Tennis San Diego, our goal is to teach the fundamentals of tennis while inspiring a love for the sport that lasts a lifetime. For our young athletes, that journey begins with joy. When children feel welcomed, encouraged, and excited to participate, they have the opportunity to build confidence, develop new skills, form friendships, and discover what they are capable of—both on and off the court.
AST Program Director, Lindsey Vosburgh, shares:
“When I hear a child say they don’t like tennis, I often wonder if they simply haven’t had the right first experience—or the right first coach! Sometimes, that makes all the difference. We only get one chance to make a first impression, and our goal is to make it a great one - to help every child discover the fun of tennis and leave the court excited to come back for more!"
"As our players grow in age and ability, they may progress into more advanced training and competitive programs. But at the beginning of every tennis journey, joy is what matters most. "
And that’s what days like this are all about—making memories, building friendships, and most importantly, having FUN on the courts!
We know that not every child will become a competitive tournament player, and that is okay. Our hope is that every child who participates in a YTSD program gains something meaningful, whether it is a new skill, a friendship, newfound confidence, or simply the excitement of discovering a sport they enjoy. Success can look different for every player, and we believe every small victory deserves to be celebrated. By creating welcoming opportunities for children of different ages, abilities, and experience levels, we strive to make tennis accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for more families throughout our community.
Thank you to our dedicated coaches, volunteers, families, and all of our supporters who help bring these experiences to life. From the weekly lessons that introduce children to the sport, to special events that bring our community together, every opportunity to play helps create a stronger foundation for growth, connection, and a lifelong love of tennis. We are especially grateful for the continued generosity of our program founder, Kathy Chabot Willette, and her family. Their ongoing support helps make our community programs and special events possible and we are very thankful for the difference their generosity makes in the lives of the children and families we serve.
Because we believe childhood should be filled with opportunities to play, explore, laugh, and let imagination run wild! This Halloween, our courts came alive with witches, spiders, creative costumes, and plenty of tennis-themed fun! From silly challenges to shared giggles, every moment was a chance for children to connect, build confidence, and create lasting memories.
And if one of those memories inspires a child to pick up a racket again, make a new friend, or fall in love with tennis, then the magic of the day will last long after the Halloween decorations come down!
Wishing everyone a safe and Happy Halloween!
💛 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!
