In more than four decades of teaching and coaching, Dennis Van der Meer established himself as one of the foremost tennis teachers in the world. A former top player in his native South Africa, he went on to coach Margaret Court and Billie Jean King and then established his own teaching center on Hilton Head Island.
In 1988, the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports established a “National Master in Tennis” award and designated Van der Meer as one of the very first recipients. He passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2019. I first met him in the 1980s at a camp at the Van Der Meer Tennis Center and came away amazed by his upbeat teaching—sometimes punctuated by silly jokes—and his phenomenal ability at the end of a camp with 60 participants to conclude by calling each by name and recalling specifically the flaws in their game he was working on to help them improve. A kind, wonderful man who cared deeply about tennis and tennis players. He is missed. For more about him and his contribution to tennis, see the obituary in The Island Packet.
Van der Meer’s inspiration aside, what distinguishes this tennis center from virtually all the other camps and resorts viewed here is that it is solely a teaching facility with no lodging of its own. Apart from some juniors in its World class program who live at the center, every camper who arrives stays somewhere else. Although the center does make lodging arrangements—and in fact gets its students discounted rates at two local hotels—you’re free to stay anywhere you like and book the programs separately. So unlike many other camps where students stay in the same accommodations and often dine together, at the Van Der Meer Center the campers disperse at the end of the day and only see each other again by accident or design until the next day’s sessions.
No matter which of Van Der Meer’s senior staff runs the clinic, the teaching methodology is the same. Van der Meer has developed a highly programmed, step-by-step teaching method he calls the Official Standard Method of Instruction. It breaks each of the basic strokes down into a series of specific steps. Students start by mastering simple skills (like bouncing a ball off the ground with their racquet), which can then be combined to produce whole strokes. The idea is to create confidence by building on successes and thus minimize the frustration of learning a difficult sport. Van der Meer believes that his methods “can teach a beginner the basics of the game faster and more efficiently than any other method.”
Tennis Programs: For multi-day adult clinics now take place at the Van Der Meer Shipyard Tennis Resort, where there is lodging just steps from the courts. The Tennis Center focuses on daily daily clinics and drill sessions for those who want an hour or two of instruction or a demanding workout.
Court Complex: The complex consists of 28 hard and clay courts, 4 of them indoors.
Court fees: None
Off Court
Beach: Some of the properties the Van Der Meer Center uses to house students have beaches; check with the resort for details.
Golf Courses: None. If you want to make golf part of your holiday, either book the Van Der Meer program at Shipyard Plantation or check out the other resorts on Hilton Head Island (see Tennis Resorts Online Mid Atlantic Map).
Accommodations
Most of the longer adult programs take place at Van der Meer’s Shipyard Racquet Club. The Tennis Center offers a variety of daily programs. Discounted lodging is available for players utilizing either facility.
Getting there
Seasons: Year-round, though busiest spring and fall. If money is an object, you’ll get the best rates in winter, when daytime temperatures on Hilton Head Island can be ideal for tennis, just don’t expect to spend much time at the beach.
Travel Instructions: By Air: The Van Der Meer Center is 45 miles from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) in Georgia and 95 miles from Charleston International Airport (CHS). Major airlines serve both of those gateways. It is also possible to fly directly to Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH), on commuter service from US Airways Express, via Charlotte, NC. Rental cars and shuttles are available at all three airports.
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32 Reviews on “Van Der Meer Tennis Academy”
Very Good
4.4
32 reviews
JK
Our daughter, 14, joined their junior program for a week during her spring break. She was welcomed by the staff as well as full time players. She really enjoyed the experience as she found it challenging and rewarding. We are looking forward to returning again this year and gladly recommend their program.
AD
Van Der Meer provides great instruction at an affordable price. My kids have attended for numerous years and have benefited greatly.
JC
The strength of the Van Der Meer Center is its staff. They are not only knowledgeable about tennis, but also very energetic which is not easy to keep up everyday. I know, I taught tennis many years ago. The team that worked with our group created a fun, positive experience for all of the players.
KB
My daughter attended this camp the week after Christmas. She thoroughly enjoyed it. And as a side bonus, I was able to participate in the adult clinics being held at the Van Der Meer Shipyard location while she was attending the Junior Clinics. There was a nice variety of tennis ability so she had plenty of competition. There was also a nice variety of coaches so she received plenty of good advice. We will definitely return to Van Der Meer in the near future!
DG
We had a great experience. My 8 year old loved her week at Van Der Meer. Really super people and very serious about making the best use of the time to ensure the kids are both advancing their skills as fast as possible and having fun as well. Can’t wait to go back!
LC
I’ve been lucky enough to go to Van Der Meer Tennis Center for the past 6 years with a group of 15-20 ladies from my neighborhood. We stay within walking distance and very much enjoy the drills, play and instruction they offer. The staff is receptive to our requests and suggestions. The coaches are super fun and seem to love their jobs.
PR
Great staff and facilities. Accommodates players of all ages and abilities. Been going there for many years and always look forward to it!
DV
Excellent camp. My wife and I had a great time and learned a lot.
TF
We travel to Hilton Head about twice each year and my 16 yo son chooses to attend the Van Der Meer Junior tennis camps each time. He says the instruction he receives is outstanding, as is the competitive play with the other participants. The vacation works out wonderfully for us all. He’d rather be playing tennis and improving his game, and the rest of the family loves the other recreation available on the island, such as biking on the beach, walking the many paths, and playing golf and tennis.
SM
The tennis camp we participated in in 2016 was extremely fun and helpful. They compacted a lot of tennis into 3 days and had a good mix of drills and competition. The teaching staff was competent and fun. I would highly recommend the Van Der Meer Tennis Center.
RS
Amazing instruction. Individual attention…no more than 4 people in a group. A great combination of lessons and point play.
DB
Van der Meer is, to me, one of the best resorts around. it’s a beautiful spot on Hilton Head island that is surrounded by natural beauty. but, more than that, the tennis instruction is first rate. I’ve been to many, including IMG and many others and VdM is right up there among the best. I took lessons from Dennis when he was healthy and he is a wonderful man and a superb tennis instructor.
BK
My neighborhood tennis team has been to Van Der Meer for the last 8 years and we have alawys had a great experience. The staff is very good and they cater to our specific needs as a team and different levels of play. I highly recommend this facility and plan to return again.
DH
I loved the way that the pro was teaching us. Wish I had more time to get stay with the pro.
AA
Attending the adult weekend clinic in 2009, 2010 and 2011. I opted to stay at the Elston Inn on campus instead of the regular offering of dorm rooms.
KC
Excellent instruction; pros try to connect to the kids and genuinely seem to enjoy teaching
MM
Best junior camp!! FUN! I feel like I have improved a lot just from one week of this junior camp!
MH
Instructors were very nice and gave great instructions. Enjoyed mix of drills and match play. Have been to Nike, Wilson and Saddlebrook camps and felt this was the best. Would definitely go back!
KL
We sent our two children for a weeklong camp during Spring Break. The Pros were top notch and made the children feel comfortable. They were pushed to perform at a higher level of competition and came home much better tennis players. I thought the comditioning drills were fabulous. There were no negatives to think of.
MR
My son participated in the week-long spring break camp, and absolutely loved it. The instructors were exceptional, and really made it fun for the kids, yet challenging. I liked the 2 hour break for lunch…it gave us time to have picnics on the beach, before the afternoon session. We’ll be back!
LT
My daughter attended the camp last week and had a wonderful time. She has had a moderate interest in tennis to date(she will be 8 soon). After attending the camp she can’t wait to get back onto the court. Thank you as the passion that the instructors conveyed each day has made her really have fun and enjoy the game.
GD
There is no doubt that VDM Tennis is the best tennis facility that I have seen. The programs are varied so that they can meet the expectation of every individual. The pros are experienced, personable, and professional. They quickly assess your level of play and assist you to improve your abilities. The resort has both outdoor and indoor courts, so even in inclement weather, you are sure to receive the instruction you signed up for. A great place! Â
AG
strengths: quality of intruction, location Â
JR
Kids enjoyed the Junior Weekend clinic. I had privates with Brig, and he was excellent. The facility itself is a bit dreary compared to others on the island. The pro shop staff was slow. My husband was able to only find 1 match using the game matching book. That was very unfortunate.
BS
Camp was terrific for my daughter. Very organized, focused, and fun. Pros really seemed to enjoy working with the kids.
SD
I wanted to improve my game so that I could start playing sectional and national tournaments. Vandermeer TC pros are just outstanding! Sales and teaching staff give you personal attention unlike other tennis teaching factories. One year of hard work and 6-7 trips to Vandermeer in Hilton Head has cleaned up my strokes/game tremendously!
MG
Only weakness was the heat. Great camp, great instructors and a great experience!
DG
Service was not very good at The Player’s Club. There is no decaf coffee. The rooms are left unmade till one or later in the afternoons. There is no service after five.
KH
we loved it. my daughter is only 8 and she was the youngest there and they did great 1-1 with her for entire week.
AG
I found a really good experience to be attended at the Tennis University at Van Der Meer Tennis Academic. I met an outstanding coaches and a lot of good fellas. Most important thing for me was combined learning with too much fun.
KB
It is very informative and the staff is very attentive to the whole group, and a lot of one on one time during the clinic
BG
Players club hotel adjacent to the courts are a real plus. Only downside, no restraunt on-site, but short walk to food and drinks.
32 Reviews on “Van Der Meer Tennis Academy”
Our daughter, 14, joined their junior program for a week during her spring break. She was welcomed by the staff as well as full time players. She really enjoyed the experience as she found it challenging and rewarding. We are looking forward to returning again this year and gladly recommend their program.
Van Der Meer provides great instruction at an affordable price. My kids have attended for numerous years and have benefited greatly.
The strength of the Van Der Meer Center is its staff. They are not only knowledgeable about tennis, but also very energetic which is not easy to keep up everyday. I know, I taught tennis many years ago. The team that worked with our group created a fun, positive experience for all of the players.
My daughter attended this camp the week after Christmas. She thoroughly enjoyed it. And as a side bonus, I was able to participate in the adult clinics being held at the Van Der Meer Shipyard location while she was attending the Junior Clinics. There was a nice variety of tennis ability so she had plenty of competition. There was also a nice variety of coaches so she received plenty of good advice. We will definitely return to Van Der Meer in the near future!
We had a great experience. My 8 year old loved her week at Van Der Meer. Really super people and very serious about making the best use of the time to ensure the kids are both advancing their skills as fast as possible and having fun as well. Can’t wait to go back!
I’ve been lucky enough to go to Van Der Meer Tennis Center for the past 6 years with a group of 15-20 ladies from my neighborhood. We stay within walking distance and very much enjoy the drills, play and instruction they offer. The staff is receptive to our requests and suggestions. The coaches are super fun and seem to love their jobs.
Great staff and facilities. Accommodates players of all ages and abilities. Been going there for many years and always look forward to it!
Excellent camp. My wife and I had a great time and learned a lot.
We travel to Hilton Head about twice each year and my 16 yo son chooses to attend the Van Der Meer Junior tennis camps each time. He says the instruction he receives is outstanding, as is the competitive play with the other participants. The vacation works out wonderfully for us all. He’d rather be playing tennis and improving his game, and the rest of the family loves the other recreation available on the island, such as biking on the beach, walking the many paths, and playing golf and tennis.
The tennis camp we participated in in 2016 was extremely fun and helpful. They compacted a lot of tennis into 3 days and had a good mix of drills and competition. The teaching staff was competent and fun. I would highly recommend the Van Der Meer Tennis Center.
Amazing instruction. Individual attention…no more than 4 people in a group. A great combination of lessons and point play.
Van der Meer is, to me, one of the best resorts around. it’s a beautiful spot on Hilton Head island that is surrounded by natural beauty. but, more than that, the tennis instruction is first rate. I’ve been to many, including IMG and many others and VdM is right up there among the best. I took lessons from Dennis when he was healthy and he is a wonderful man and a superb tennis instructor.
My neighborhood tennis team has been to Van Der Meer for the last 8 years and we have alawys had a great experience. The staff is very good and they cater to our specific needs as a team and different levels of play. I highly recommend this facility and plan to return again.
I loved the way that the pro was teaching us. Wish I had more time to get stay with the pro.
Attending the adult weekend clinic in 2009, 2010 and 2011. I opted to stay at the Elston Inn on campus instead of the regular offering of dorm rooms.
Excellent instruction; pros try to connect to the kids and genuinely seem to enjoy teaching
Best junior camp!! FUN! I feel like I have improved a lot just from one week of this junior camp!
Instructors were very nice and gave great instructions. Enjoyed mix of drills and match play. Have been to Nike, Wilson and Saddlebrook camps and felt this was the best. Would definitely go back!
We sent our two children for a weeklong camp during Spring Break. The Pros were top notch and made the children feel comfortable. They were pushed to perform at a higher level of competition and came home much better tennis players. I thought the comditioning drills were fabulous. There were no negatives to think of.
My son participated in the week-long spring break camp, and absolutely loved it. The instructors were exceptional, and really made it fun for the kids, yet challenging. I liked the 2 hour break for lunch…it gave us time to have picnics on the beach, before the afternoon session. We’ll be back!
My daughter attended the camp last week and had a wonderful time. She has had a moderate interest in tennis to date(she will be 8 soon). After attending the camp she can’t wait to get back onto the court. Thank you as the passion that the instructors conveyed each day has made her really have fun and enjoy the game.
There is no doubt that VDM Tennis is the best tennis facility that I have seen. The programs are varied so that they can meet the expectation of every individual. The pros are experienced, personable, and professional. They quickly assess your level of play and assist you to improve your abilities. The resort has both outdoor and indoor courts, so even in inclement weather, you are sure to receive the instruction you signed up for. A great place! Â
strengths: quality of intruction, location Â
Kids enjoyed the Junior Weekend clinic. I had privates with Brig, and he was excellent. The facility itself is a bit dreary compared to others on the island. The pro shop staff was slow. My husband was able to only find 1 match using the game matching book. That was very unfortunate.
Camp was terrific for my daughter. Very organized, focused, and fun. Pros really seemed to enjoy working with the kids.
I wanted to improve my game so that I could start playing sectional and national tournaments. Vandermeer TC pros are just outstanding! Sales and teaching staff give you personal attention unlike other tennis teaching factories. One year of hard work and 6-7 trips to Vandermeer in Hilton Head has cleaned up my strokes/game tremendously!
Only weakness was the heat. Great camp, great instructors and a great experience!
Service was not very good at The Player’s Club. There is no decaf coffee. The rooms are left unmade till one or later in the afternoons. There is no service after five.
we loved it. my daughter is only 8 and she was the youngest there and they did great 1-1 with her for entire week.
I found a really good experience to be attended at the Tennis University at Van Der Meer Tennis Academic. I met an outstanding coaches and a lot of good fellas. Most important thing for me was combined learning with too much fun.
It is very informative and the staff is very attentive to the whole group, and a lot of one on one time during the clinic
Players club hotel adjacent to the courts are a real plus. Only downside, no restraunt on-site, but short walk to food and drinks.