Newk’s may be most widely known for their outstanding adult programs and welcoming resort community, but their junior programs are also a great opportunity for the entire family to maximize their stay in New Braunfels, TX.
The John Newcombe Tennis Ranch offers a variety of programs that cater to juniors of all levels. From their year-round academy for those looking for a full-time experience, to their seasonal tennis camps for players of all levels, Newk’s has a program to suit any junior player. With the unique Team-Family atmosphere that Newk’s embraces, every player will feel welcome upon arrive and will leave feeling encouraged and pleased with the improvements they’ve been able to make to their game. The goal of all of the coaches at the Ranch is that beginners fall in love with tennis and that more advanced players leave with even more passion and enjoyment for the sport.
Why Newk’s Junior Tennis Camps?
With over 50 years of experience running tennis camps, the John Newcombe tennis camp offers a fun yet educational week for junior attendees. Junior camps are offered throughout the year during summer, spring, winter, and Thanksgiving breaks. Junior tennis camps are perfect for players ages 8 to 18, from beginners to recreational and advanced players. These programs offer a weeklong session that encapsulates all the fun of a typical summer camp, with about five hours of tennis per day.
There is a 1:5 coach to camper ratio, so each camper will leave with tips and insight they can use towards their game when they return home. Higher level groups will follow morning practices with on-court fitness sessions, while beginner levels will play typical camp games. Kids are always welcome to jump on the court in the early mornings and evenings if the five hours of tennis isn’t enough. Other offerings include the popular Kangaroo vs. Gorilla team competition, soccer, swim parties, dances, talent shows, and plenty of other camp fun.
Junior Programs During the School Year
During the school year, Newk’s boarding academy is in full swing. This year-round academy is perfect for junior players looking to take their game to the next level or make their way onto a college tennis team. The Newk’s coaches focus on the kids as both players and as people, helping them develop on and off the court. Many of the coaches have past experience playing college tennis and are the perfect mentors to help students take their game to the next level and navigate the recruiting process.
A special part of the program is the emphasis on match play. Students play full practice matches multiple times a week to ensure they are match-tough and prepared when they get to tournaments. Students have the option to homeschool with the program of their choice or attend the local schools in New Braunfels. Many students have gone on to play college tennis at schools such as North Carolina, Georgia, Michigan, and many more. Some alumni on the pro circuit include Michael Venus and Nicole Melichar, both multiple time doubles Grand Slam champions. It’s clear that Newk’s academy helps prepare these players to compete at the most elite level.
Summer Programming on the Ranch
For those junior players looking to get the academy experience but are not quite ready to commit to a boarding academy, Newk’s summer academy is a perfect option. While the summer academy runs for ten weeks throughout the summer, attendees must stay for a minimum of three weeks to ensure they get the full academy experience. Matchplay is still a critical aspect of this program, with kids playing full matches multiple times a week to prepare them for tournaments. Live ball drilling, fitness, and strength training also help players train at the highest level and improve their game during the summer.
For any parents that have attended a camp at Newk’s or are simply interested in sending their kids for a fun yet informative tennis experience, explore all of the options, and connect with the Newk’s team to start planning your next tennis trip.
