There is a lot of shouting going on in the Billabong Bar. Some 60 of us have turned up at Newk’s Tennis Ranch on a balmy October weekend, and after introductions to the pros, an hour of lively drills, and a dinner of steak, salmon, scalloped potatoes, sautéed vegetables, salad, and chocolate cake we’ve reconvened in the bar, divided now into two groups, Team Australia and Team USA, for a pep talk with our respective captains and camp co-directors, Chris Jacques and Mitch Joyce.
The actual Davis Cup-style competition won’t take place until tomorrow when we gather as teams in two separate bleachers to cheer on our respective captains and their partners in a pro doubles exhibition. Tonight, however, we’re being introduced to the fine art of “barracking,” which consists chiefly of shouting loudly to support your team coupled with hurling insults at the opponents. And for those of us on Team Australia that also means a rehearsal of the classic cheer: “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oy, Oy, Oy.” The team meetings over, many of us grab a drink at the bar and head outside to a pavilion and firepit for s’mores, entertainment by the Grand Slams—an informal band comprised of several of the pros—and a chance to get to know more of our fellow campers.
They don’t make tennis camps like Newk’s tennis ranch anymore. It is the last of a breed, a vestige of the tennis-boom era when days of banging balls were followed by nights of hanging out with the pros and new-found tennis mates. Everybody played together all day and then gathered together again for dinner, merry-making, and maybe a beverage, and entertaining one another with songs, stories, and conversation. The unwritten assumption was that anyone who loved tennis enough to spend five hours a day doing drills must be worth getting to know.
Former world No. 1 John Newcombe opened the ranch in 1968 with former Trinity University coach Clarence Mabry. Much of the teaching methodology continues to be based on the techniques Newk learned from legendary Australian Davis Cup coach Harry Hopman and on those Mabry employed when he helped launch the careers of Dick Stockton, Brian Gottfried, and Chuck McKinley. As principal owner, Newk spends as much as six weeks a year at the Ranch, including two Fantasy events (see Calendar below. Historic photos and magazine covers of Newk decorate the walls of the main lodge, as do posters of Australia. His influence permeates the camp.
The property was, in Newk’s words “a run-down dude ranch,” when he and Mabry first looked at it, but its location in the Texas Hill Country, 20 miles north of San Antonio and 30 miles south of Austin, appealed to Newk who wanted a retreat from the circuit when he was in the U.S. Today the ranch has 31 courts, four of them indoors and another four that are clay. The original ranchhouse has a pro shop, dining room with tables for eight or more, and the Billabong Bar. Behind the ranchhouse stretches a terraced deck with picnic tables in the shade of several large live oaks—a camper favorite for lunch on pleasant days—just steps from an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. From there it is a short stroll to the adult accommodations, which consist of a mixed bag of rooms, cottages, casitas, and one- and two-bedroom condos. As the ranch has grown, so has the town of New Braunfels, so the spread no longer feels so rural and isolated as it did when I first visited—particularly given that John Newcombe Estates, a housing development and country club, has spring up on the adjacent 200 acres. Still, I surprised a couple of deer on campus as I walked to breakfast one morning and another camper spotted a javelina.
Phil Hendrie has been the Director of Tennis for the John Newcombe Tennis Ranch for the past 40+ years, overseeing both the adult and junior programs. Throughout his time at the Ranch he has coached players such as Lleyton Hewitt, Li Na, Michael Venus, Nicole Melichar, Ryan Harrison, and many more. He also has a high success rate of getting young players college scholarships. Phil heads up a staff of more than a dozen tennis professionals including Stephen Rogers and Max McDulin, the Directors of Adult Tennis.
Tennis Programs: In the adult camps, each day begins with a basic overview of the strokes on the day's agenda, generally focused on basics of technique. From there it's out to the courts and a mixture of drills, half of them with the pro doing the feeding, the other half live ball sessions, pitting campers against each other or one or more pros. There is often one or more pros who rove, pulling aside individual campers for specific advice on improving a particular stroke. Each of the morning and afternoon sessions lasts 2½ to 3 hours and often conclude with some sort of informal doubles competition. Midweek sessions add videotaping to the mix.
Court Complex: 27 hard courts (4 covered) and 4 Har-Tru courts
Court fees: None
Off Court
Fitness Center: Although it is hard to imagine why anyone who spends 5 hours on court would feel the need for a fitness center, the Ranch does in fact have one in a cinderblock building near the covered courts, principally intended for the full-time junior academy students but available to adults who feel a need for it. It has the usual weight machines and Cardio equipment along with a battery of devices intended for tennis specific exercises, including medicine balls and balance platforms. It may also come into play, as it did during my visit, in the case of rain, sending part of the group to the covered courts, part to the fitness center for an overview of tennis-specific exercises. There is no spa; however, there is a massage therapist on call.
Accommodations
Campers can choose from a variety of accommodations, all clustered around or near the courts. These range from simple rooms with two double beds to one- and two-bedroom condos, the latter with fireplaces, full kitchens, and washer-dryers.
Getting there
Seasons: Year-round with the lowest rates available from November through February.
Travel Instructions: By air: The nearest airports are San Antonio, roughly 30 minutes to the south, and Austin, roughly 45 minutes to the north. By Car: The ranch is on Highway 46 in New Braunfels, Texas. From San Antonio, take I-35 North to Loop 337. Exit and turn left following Loop 337 to Highway 46 West. Exit, turn left (west), and drive approximately 2 miles then turn left at the large water tower marked "Newks Resort." Follow the signs to the Main Lodge.
An excellent camp overall. The coaches are very professional and a lot of fun both on and off the court. The food is good. The only slight downside is that the accommodations were rather old – fashioned.
AS
Newk’s is absolutely wonderful and it’s all about tennis, friends, family, and fun. Chris Jacques is a dynamic leader, funny, friendly, a challenging inspiration as a tennis enthusiast. None better … no place better!!!
KF
My favourite vacation is at John newcombe’s. The staff are fantastic Really challenging tennis drills and huge amount of fun in the evenings. Hoping to go there for my big birthday celebration with lots of friends.
MS
WOW!!!! Newks is AMAZING!! I have been to many tennis get-a-ways and newks is far and beyond anything else. The passion they share with every single guest is rival to none! I highly recomend going! I was a current 3.0 and am not 3.5 continuing to get better and better. Newks is perfect for tennis players of all levels. There were even old college players that were guests with me!!! Best camp around, the staff is AMAZING and will help with every single part of your game!! Thanks Newkies!!!
AD
Tons of fun, never a dull moment. Personable staff, a fun atmosphere molded by years of tradition and an industrious culture. Whenever I come here, I can be sure to have at least 4 hours of instructed hitting or games every day. The staff here are phenomenal at what they do, and I’d recommend this place to anyone. The only bad thing I have to say about it is that it’s located in New Braunfels; while that is secluded, I personally like being near a bigger city too.
CD
i have been a couple of times for long periods. its both exception for younger kids way up to older adults. every one is so friendly, and it feels like a family. team family team!
BJ
Wow – a total tennis experience, with the accent on enjoying your game. The most attentive pros in the business. It’s all about the tennis, both on and off the court – with board and lodging more than adequate, but you go there for the tennis and fun evening gatherings.
SM
Just a fantastic fun place where all the Pros help you with your tennis game in a positive, instructive way& never make one feel you are not good. They are there to help.
DW
Best tennis experience out there!!!!!
DM
This was a tennis boot camp. You worked on skills and drilled for most of the day. I liked that they worked you as hard as you could go for six hours a day. The coaches were really good at encouraging you. I didn’t like that there weren’t very many people there the week that I went, so there wasn’t much competition for match play.
KC
NEWKS is a really special place for me. It has felt like home ever since my first summer spent there. It is a Camp full of a massive positive energy, where you can feel more than welcome and accepted, where you can learn more about tennis, have fun, meet new people, make great friendships, and enjoy the moment to the maximum potential. Everything about the ranch makes tennis so much fun. It makes it an unforgettable experience. All the way from the camp direction to the activities to the staff and instructors. The energy and attitude that fill NEWKS is just amazing, for example the team family team spirit where everyone is a very important part of the camp. NEWKS is definitely the place where you want to play tennis, visit the ranch soon.
JR
I love everything about the John Newcombe Tennis Ranch. The place where it is in New Braunfels is Beautiful and if you need anything they have a great Pro Shop. The Tennis Instructors are very knowledgeable, and make you work hard, but you don’t mind because they make it so fun. After the hard work you can relax in the bar, and maybe get to sing a little Karaoke. Everyone there have always been very nice and the rooms are great. I will always pick going back to The John Newcombe Tennis Ranch. I learn something new every time.
HH
The coaching staff is fun and make you feel comfortable despite your skill level. The atmosphere is so much fun and perfect for a weekend getaway.
RB
One of the best weekends I have ever spent and really fairly inexpensive for the amount of tennis and instruction we got. The pros were all very knowledgeable and it was nice that they were consistent with each other so I felt like I was getting the same message from each person. There were always plenty of courts available which was very nice. Food was delicious and I enjoyed getting to know the pros on a personal level when they would eat with us. Bed was not the most comfortable. A few of the pros that helped fill in on some of the sessions seems pretty young and didn’t want to work with adults but there were only a couple of those. Mostly Fila at the pro shop.
BE
Newks offers a second to none experience with both tennis and recreation. The instructors are top notch and they have great eyes for weaknesses in your game. The food is really great and the fun doesn’t end during the day. Every night there are fun activities planned that form a sense of community and allow for a group that stays in touch after the vacation is done. The week I spend at newks preps me for the year and is something that relaxes me for weeks after I get home. I can’t recommend a trip to newks enough.
JN
Just the most awesome place I have been! Started sending my son there when he was 14 years old. That was 17 years ago! They are so friendly & accommodating. We enjoyed going back for years after that for all of the festivities. Fun, beautiful scenery, and the nicest staff! Especially Fossil Phil! And others, too many to mention! 2 Thumbs up!!!
RM
It is always a great time! Everyone is very friendly, tennis is good! Would recommend it to all!
SZ
Can’t think of one weakness. Newks is awesome for the whole family!!
KV
Loved the pros, really made tennis fun for the kids. The atmosphere was always positive and supportive. The entire staff at Newks really made you feel like family. I would have liked to see more match play and one-on-one coaching specifically regarding technique not just strategy in matches.
SE
Awesome Place and Great Tennis Coaching. Really don’t have any negative comments to share.
LB
Newks is one of our favorite places on the planet. Our daughter grew up spending part of her summers there and still keeps in contact with the coaches who eventually became friends. I recommend the ranch, particularly for any parent looking for a challenging yet nurturing environment for their young tennis player.
MP
One if the most well taught clinics I have attended Love the place
NS
Great tennis and lots of fun the entire weekend! Two thumbs up!!!
SB
Lots of fun, great tennis, and attentive pros!
EC
Newks is not a camp, it is a way of life. At Newks you are guaranteed to meet some of the coolest people from around the world and make friendships that will last a lifetime. THese people will seriously become your extended family! When i went to Newks as a 12 year old i was a “beginner”. However, I was inspired by the elite athletes around me and they pushed me to become better and better. If it were not for attending Newks every Summer I would not have become the college tennis player that i became. Newks is a wonderful place to improve your tennis game, get in shape, and spend your summer! Newks is truly a diamond in the ruff and I am so glad that I found it. Whether you or a beginner or Nadal this place is for you! On a scale of 1-10 this camp gets an 11. OUt of this world! Rock solid!
JT
Newks is a fantastic place to take a group of kids and adults alike, I have been to many academy’s around the world but none of them come close to newks for passion, programs and knowledge of the sport. The adults program is just Awesome they add the great Australia feel and knowledge of the game into every session. To sum Newks up is not easy as it is such a great place to go and you will feel at right at Home. The place is amazing !!
YE
We LOVED Newk’s Tennis Ranch. I have attended weekend camp 3 times and hope to make it an annual event. Either with a small or large group, it’s a heck of a lot of fun!
KR
I have been to quite a few tennis camps over the years and Newks Tennis Camp is by far my favorite one! My last two years of high school our tennis team as a whole went twice a year; once in the spring and again in the fall. Every camp substantially enhanced our teams skill and performance. Similarly, my own performance and technique were remarkably improved. Not only does the camp make you a better player but also it is actually a lot of fun! The staff is incredible and they make sure that everyone has a great time. They are always bright spirited and make sure every day is full of laughter and joy. The camps are full of fun activities as well as abundant playing time. I would truly choose Newks Tennis Camp over any other.
KC
Newks is a fun and fantastic tennis camp with the best pros on the planet! They make working hard on the courts so much fun and so rewarding. You must go!
CP
Newk’s is literally one of my favorite places in the world! World class staff and instruction is garunteed, and you can bet you will improve your game while you stay. The vibe at the ranch is unique and unmatched, the staff genuinely enjoys the sport and it is reflected throughout the resort! Excellent food and rooms as well as the multitude of courts, the soccer field, pool and outdoor pavillion all come together to give you one of the best days you could have. I’m always excited to return when I have the chance, definitely a place I recommend my friends to stay at!
SF
Very adult and kid friendly. My niece and nephews have attended a week Junior Camp. Kids are engaged with FUN in the mix at all times. Team Competitiveness makes it fun: “The Gorillas and the Kangaroos”. The Staff and the Motto: “Team, Family, Team” makes the difference in this resort.
ML
Newks is a fantastic tennis resort. It has exceptional tennis coaching in a fun environment. The ladies enjoy getting away for a fun weekend while sharpening their tennis skills. My kids have a blast in the creative tennis summer camps. Our family even enjoyed a tennis vacation over the Thanksgiving holiday. Its great place for everyone in the family. Its not the Four Seasons but we always have a good time.
DM
Great staff, talented and energetic. Great program, and a great place to go to fall back in love (or stay in love) with tennis. I’ll definitely be back.
JJ
Newks is a place that I will remember forever. Not only did I become a better tennis player in my mental and physical game because of the amazing coaching staff, I made lifelong friends and memories that I will cherish forever. It doesn’t matter if you are just beginning or training to play in college or at a professional level. They meet you where you are at and the whole experience is an opportunity of a lifetime! GO GO GO. You won’t regret it.
NS
Absolutely amazing staff. The accommodations and amenities are world class. It is a place to recharge and rejuvenate your Tennis and your spirit.
KC
Newk’s tennis camp is an annual girls event for a group of 8 of us that I would miss for anything. The staff are top notch and group and one on one instruction don’t even compare to other resorts or camps. I’d recommend Newk’s any day to any one!
AL
It was a great weekend. The ratio of players to pro was excellent. Planning on take a group back in October.
TJ
The pros on the ranch are some of the friendliest most lively and exceptionally talented individuals i’ve had the pleasure of meeting. period. The diversity of knowledge and experience is a players wet dream, there will always be someone you can relate to and learn from, whether you are a first year beginner, or a lifetime competitor. Not to mention they’ll throw one back and share stories/tennis theory in the Waltzing Matilda (the on ranch bar with the most fantastic bar tenders around) to whoever is willing to listen after a long productive day slapping fuzz on court. A truely magical place in the tennis world. I highly recommend ‘NEWKS’ to any lover of the game, good food, great atmosphere, and (normally with few exceptions) great weather.
SB
Newks is one of my favorite summer past times as both a camper & counselor. They really have figured out how to incorporate a true #teamfamilyteam culture surrounded by amazing coaches that makes you want to always come back for more.
GC
Fun, laid back environment. The Pro’s are informative and lively. Highly recommend.
CA
The Newks Tennis Ranch will always hold a very special place in my heart, and my experiences there will be cherished for a lifetime. From its tennis favorable weather and facilities, to the world class staff that know the ins and outs of tennis, the John Newcombe tennis ranch is a great place for tennis lovers and learners alike.
JW
What a wonderful place to visit and stay! Fantastic staff, comfortable rooms and tennis instruction is phenomenal. Always enjoy this trip!
HC
Going on our 3rd year as a team traveling to Newks. The tennis instruction is like no other. Chris & Mitch absolutely welcome you with open arms and welcome any and all suggestions. The grounds are beautiful, the food is amazing! Their motto of “team family team” is truly what they live and breath by. You will leave Newks with an improved game and a whole new family! My team counts down the days to our return. If you are looking for a fun, social atmosphere with tons of tennis this is the camp for you! You will not be disappointed!!
SH
The staff is fun, passionate, and very knowledgable. The diverse backgrounds they bring only strengthens the experience. They also know how to make sure campers have a tremendous experience on and off the court.
TS
Amazing place to have a fun weekend or a fun week at. The coaches and directors are supereb and the fun you have at night is just very Aussie like. Gotta love the place and would recommend it to anyone who wants to get some good tennis instruction and have some fun while at it.
TS
Great atmosphere. Really embodies the “team family team” motto.
SF
Great tennis coaching and a really fun filled weekend
CB
John Necombe Tennis Ranch is a MUST DO. We have a group that now goes on a yearly basis. LOTS of TENNIS and LOTS of fun. The ratio of pro’s to students is awesome. I love everything about the camp – the food is awesome, the drills great, and the people are amazing.
KM
Great tennis camp with great instructors! Nice well kept grounds and housing.
JB
I have always had positive experiences at the ranch. They make you feel special. The instruction is better than your local clubs- believe me. Our lodging and dining is more than adequate. Researching other resort style tennis pricing; you won’t find this type of instruction for these rates- ANYPLACE. Chris Jacques and his team goes above and beyond the call of duty….each and every time! Deep in the heart of Texas!!
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458 Reviews on “John Newcombe Tennis Ranch”
An excellent camp overall. The coaches are very professional and a lot of fun both on and off the court. The food is good. The only slight downside is that the accommodations were rather old – fashioned.
Newk’s is absolutely wonderful and it’s all about tennis, friends, family, and fun. Chris Jacques is a dynamic leader, funny, friendly, a challenging inspiration as a tennis enthusiast. None better … no place better!!!
My favourite vacation is at John newcombe’s. The staff are fantastic Really challenging tennis drills and huge amount of fun in the evenings. Hoping to go there for my big birthday celebration with lots of friends.
WOW!!!! Newks is AMAZING!! I have been to many tennis get-a-ways and newks is far and beyond anything else. The passion they share with every single guest is rival to none! I highly recomend going! I was a current 3.0 and am not 3.5 continuing to get better and better. Newks is perfect for tennis players of all levels. There were even old college players that were guests with me!!! Best camp around, the staff is AMAZING and will help with every single part of your game!! Thanks Newkies!!!
Tons of fun, never a dull moment. Personable staff, a fun atmosphere molded by years of tradition and an industrious culture. Whenever I come here, I can be sure to have at least 4 hours of instructed hitting or games every day. The staff here are phenomenal at what they do, and I’d recommend this place to anyone. The only bad thing I have to say about it is that it’s located in New Braunfels; while that is secluded, I personally like being near a bigger city too.
i have been a couple of times for long periods. its both exception for younger kids way up to older adults. every one is so friendly, and it feels like a family. team family team!
Wow – a total tennis experience, with the accent on enjoying your game. The most attentive pros in the business. It’s all about the tennis, both on and off the court – with board and lodging more than adequate, but you go there for the tennis and fun evening gatherings.
Just a fantastic fun place where all the Pros help you with your tennis game in a positive, instructive way& never make one feel you are not good. They are there to help.
Best tennis experience out there!!!!!
This was a tennis boot camp. You worked on skills and drilled for most of the day. I liked that they worked you as hard as you could go for six hours a day. The coaches were really good at encouraging you. I didn’t like that there weren’t very many people there the week that I went, so there wasn’t much competition for match play.
NEWKS is a really special place for me. It has felt like home ever since my first summer spent there. It is a Camp full of a massive positive energy, where you can feel more than welcome and accepted, where you can learn more about tennis, have fun, meet new people, make great friendships, and enjoy the moment to the maximum potential. Everything about the ranch makes tennis so much fun. It makes it an unforgettable experience. All the way from the camp direction to the activities to the staff and instructors. The energy and attitude that fill NEWKS is just amazing, for example the team family team spirit where everyone is a very important part of the camp. NEWKS is definitely the place where you want to play tennis, visit the ranch soon.
I love everything about the John Newcombe Tennis Ranch. The place where it is in New Braunfels is Beautiful and if you need anything they have a great Pro Shop. The Tennis Instructors are very knowledgeable, and make you work hard, but you don’t mind because they make it so fun. After the hard work you can relax in the bar, and maybe get to sing a little Karaoke. Everyone there have always been very nice and the rooms are great. I will always pick going back to The John Newcombe Tennis Ranch. I learn something new every time.
The coaching staff is fun and make you feel comfortable despite your skill level. The atmosphere is so much fun and perfect for a weekend getaway.
One of the best weekends I have ever spent and really fairly inexpensive for the amount of tennis and instruction we got. The pros were all very knowledgeable and it was nice that they were consistent with each other so I felt like I was getting the same message from each person. There were always plenty of courts available which was very nice. Food was delicious and I enjoyed getting to know the pros on a personal level when they would eat with us. Bed was not the most comfortable. A few of the pros that helped fill in on some of the sessions seems pretty young and didn’t want to work with adults but there were only a couple of those. Mostly Fila at the pro shop.
Newks offers a second to none experience with both tennis and recreation. The instructors are top notch and they have great eyes for weaknesses in your game. The food is really great and the fun doesn’t end during the day. Every night there are fun activities planned that form a sense of community and allow for a group that stays in touch after the vacation is done. The week I spend at newks preps me for the year and is something that relaxes me for weeks after I get home. I can’t recommend a trip to newks enough.
Just the most awesome place I have been! Started sending my son there when he was 14 years old. That was 17 years ago! They are so friendly & accommodating. We enjoyed going back for years after that for all of the festivities. Fun, beautiful scenery, and the nicest staff! Especially Fossil Phil! And others, too many to mention! 2 Thumbs up!!!
It is always a great time! Everyone is very friendly, tennis is good! Would recommend it to all!
Can’t think of one weakness. Newks is awesome for the whole family!!
Loved the pros, really made tennis fun for the kids. The atmosphere was always positive and supportive. The entire staff at Newks really made you feel like family. I would have liked to see more match play and one-on-one coaching specifically regarding technique not just strategy in matches.
Awesome Place and Great Tennis Coaching. Really don’t have any negative comments to share.
Newks is one of our favorite places on the planet. Our daughter grew up spending part of her summers there and still keeps in contact with the coaches who eventually became friends. I recommend the ranch, particularly for any parent looking for a challenging yet nurturing environment for their young tennis player.
One if the most well taught clinics I have attended Love the place
Great tennis and lots of fun the entire weekend! Two thumbs up!!!
Lots of fun, great tennis, and attentive pros!
Newks is not a camp, it is a way of life. At Newks you are guaranteed to meet some of the coolest people from around the world and make friendships that will last a lifetime. THese people will seriously become your extended family! When i went to Newks as a 12 year old i was a “beginner”. However, I was inspired by the elite athletes around me and they pushed me to become better and better. If it were not for attending Newks every Summer I would not have become the college tennis player that i became. Newks is a wonderful place to improve your tennis game, get in shape, and spend your summer! Newks is truly a diamond in the ruff and I am so glad that I found it. Whether you or a beginner or Nadal this place is for you! On a scale of 1-10 this camp gets an 11. OUt of this world! Rock solid!
Newks is a fantastic place to take a group of kids and adults alike, I have been to many academy’s around the world but none of them come close to newks for passion, programs and knowledge of the sport. The adults program is just Awesome they add the great Australia feel and knowledge of the game into every session. To sum Newks up is not easy as it is such a great place to go and you will feel at right at Home. The place is amazing !!
We LOVED Newk’s Tennis Ranch. I have attended weekend camp 3 times and hope to make it an annual event. Either with a small or large group, it’s a heck of a lot of fun!
I have been to quite a few tennis camps over the years and Newks Tennis Camp is by far my favorite one! My last two years of high school our tennis team as a whole went twice a year; once in the spring and again in the fall. Every camp substantially enhanced our teams skill and performance. Similarly, my own performance and technique were remarkably improved. Not only does the camp make you a better player but also it is actually a lot of fun! The staff is incredible and they make sure that everyone has a great time. They are always bright spirited and make sure every day is full of laughter and joy. The camps are full of fun activities as well as abundant playing time. I would truly choose Newks Tennis Camp over any other.
Newks is a fun and fantastic tennis camp with the best pros on the planet! They make working hard on the courts so much fun and so rewarding. You must go!
Newk’s is literally one of my favorite places in the world! World class staff and instruction is garunteed, and you can bet you will improve your game while you stay. The vibe at the ranch is unique and unmatched, the staff genuinely enjoys the sport and it is reflected throughout the resort! Excellent food and rooms as well as the multitude of courts, the soccer field, pool and outdoor pavillion all come together to give you one of the best days you could have. I’m always excited to return when I have the chance, definitely a place I recommend my friends to stay at!
Very adult and kid friendly. My niece and nephews have attended a week Junior Camp. Kids are engaged with FUN in the mix at all times. Team Competitiveness makes it fun: “The Gorillas and the Kangaroos”. The Staff and the Motto: “Team, Family, Team” makes the difference in this resort.
Newks is a fantastic tennis resort. It has exceptional tennis coaching in a fun environment. The ladies enjoy getting away for a fun weekend while sharpening their tennis skills. My kids have a blast in the creative tennis summer camps. Our family even enjoyed a tennis vacation over the Thanksgiving holiday. Its great place for everyone in the family. Its not the Four Seasons but we always have a good time.
Great staff, talented and energetic. Great program, and a great place to go to fall back in love (or stay in love) with tennis. I’ll definitely be back.
Newks is a place that I will remember forever. Not only did I become a better tennis player in my mental and physical game because of the amazing coaching staff, I made lifelong friends and memories that I will cherish forever. It doesn’t matter if you are just beginning or training to play in college or at a professional level. They meet you where you are at and the whole experience is an opportunity of a lifetime! GO GO GO. You won’t regret it.
Absolutely amazing staff. The accommodations and amenities are world class. It is a place to recharge and rejuvenate your Tennis and your spirit.
Newk’s tennis camp is an annual girls event for a group of 8 of us that I would miss for anything. The staff are top notch and group and one on one instruction don’t even compare to other resorts or camps. I’d recommend Newk’s any day to any one!
It was a great weekend. The ratio of players to pro was excellent. Planning on take a group back in October.
The pros on the ranch are some of the friendliest most lively and exceptionally talented individuals i’ve had the pleasure of meeting. period. The diversity of knowledge and experience is a players wet dream, there will always be someone you can relate to and learn from, whether you are a first year beginner, or a lifetime competitor. Not to mention they’ll throw one back and share stories/tennis theory in the Waltzing Matilda (the on ranch bar with the most fantastic bar tenders around) to whoever is willing to listen after a long productive day slapping fuzz on court. A truely magical place in the tennis world. I highly recommend ‘NEWKS’ to any lover of the game, good food, great atmosphere, and (normally with few exceptions) great weather.
Newks is one of my favorite summer past times as both a camper & counselor. They really have figured out how to incorporate a true #teamfamilyteam culture surrounded by amazing coaches that makes you want to always come back for more.
Fun, laid back environment. The Pro’s are informative and lively. Highly recommend.
The Newks Tennis Ranch will always hold a very special place in my heart, and my experiences there will be cherished for a lifetime. From its tennis favorable weather and facilities, to the world class staff that know the ins and outs of tennis, the John Newcombe tennis ranch is a great place for tennis lovers and learners alike.
What a wonderful place to visit and stay! Fantastic staff, comfortable rooms and tennis instruction is phenomenal. Always enjoy this trip!
Going on our 3rd year as a team traveling to Newks. The tennis instruction is like no other. Chris & Mitch absolutely welcome you with open arms and welcome any and all suggestions. The grounds are beautiful, the food is amazing! Their motto of “team family team” is truly what they live and breath by. You will leave Newks with an improved game and a whole new family! My team counts down the days to our return. If you are looking for a fun, social atmosphere with tons of tennis this is the camp for you! You will not be disappointed!!
The staff is fun, passionate, and very knowledgable. The diverse backgrounds they bring only strengthens the experience. They also know how to make sure campers have a tremendous experience on and off the court.
Amazing place to have a fun weekend or a fun week at. The coaches and directors are supereb and the fun you have at night is just very Aussie like. Gotta love the place and would recommend it to anyone who wants to get some good tennis instruction and have some fun while at it.
Great atmosphere. Really embodies the “team family team” motto.
Great tennis coaching and a really fun filled weekend
John Necombe Tennis Ranch is a MUST DO. We have a group that now goes on a yearly basis. LOTS of TENNIS and LOTS of fun. The ratio of pro’s to students is awesome. I love everything about the camp – the food is awesome, the drills great, and the people are amazing.
Great tennis camp with great instructors! Nice well kept grounds and housing.
I have always had positive experiences at the ranch. They make you feel special. The instruction is better than your local clubs- believe me. Our lodging and dining is more than adequate. Researching other resort style tennis pricing; you won’t find this type of instruction for these rates- ANYPLACE. Chris Jacques and his team goes above and beyond the call of duty….each and every time! Deep in the heart of Texas!!