The legendary tennis instructor and coach Dennis Van der Meer passed away 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.
Of all the resorts on Hilton Head Island, Shipyard Plantation has always impressed me for its serenity. Drive through either entrance gate and you find yourself on a winding two-lane road bordered by woods or golf fairways and unobtrusive complexes of low-rise condos. The road eventually ends at the 20-court Van Der Meer Shipyard Tennis Resort and a beachfront hotel called the Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. Its location puts most of Hilton Head Island’s shops, restaurants, and attractions within easy reach while ensuring a measure of tranquility once you return to the plantation.
The plantation itself covers a 800 acres. Unlike Sea Pines and Palmetto Dunes, which border long stretches of beach, most of Shipyard lies inland. At its northeastern corner, however, a rectangular parcel of land connects the rest of the plantation to the beach. It’s there, just behind the dunes, that you’ll find both the Sonesta hotel and the resort’s beach club.
The ownership of Shipyard’s recreational amenities and its lodging is fragmented, which makes it modestly more complicated to sort through the options if you’re planning to stay there. The condos are handled by many different island real estate agencies, each of which may have struck a different deal with the golf club and tennis club to ensure their guests special privileges.
Tennis players have it somewhat easier since they can call the Van Der Meer organization and take advantage of special package prices the racquet club has cut with island hotels and villas, inside and outside the plantation.
Billie Jean King was the touring pro for Shipyard Plantation in 1974 when the racquet club was built. Almost two decades later her onetime coach and former business partner Dennis Van der Meer bought the racquet club and made major enhancements, including the addition of three indoor courts, the general upgrading of the others, and enhancement of the stadium.
Tennis Staff: Most of the clinics are run by Dr. Louis Cap and other members of the Van Der Meer professional staff. A Master Professional and PTR National Tester and Clinician, Cap played the European Circuit in the 60’s, and in addition to his lengthy teaching and playing career, Louie has a Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics and when I last visited in 2017 was preparing to run his 43rd consecutive Boston Marathon.
Tennis Programs: The Van Der Meer organization has moved all of its multi-day adult programming to this Shipyard venue. Throughout virtually the entire year now, there are midweek and weekend clinics ranging from 10 to 20 hours in length. Different sessions are designed to appeal to different players, from basic clinics for a wide range to abilities to drill-and-play, advanced, or world-class drill sessions for NTRP 3.5 and above. Certain other periods are devoted to singles, doubles, or senior play. Adults who want daily (as opposed to multi-day) programs can still get those at Shipyard, which offers Cardio tennis and from May to October a weekly pro exhibition or a broad range of clinics Van Der Meer Tennis Center, which is also where the junior programs take place.
Court Complex: A handsome weathered wood-and-stucco pro shop beneath a towering live oak tree anchors this 20-court complex. Walkways impregnated with shells provide access to the courts, most of which have been laid out in pairs with refrigerated water fountains and shaded pavilions in between. One of these courts is a bleachered stadium. Altogether there are 14 clay courts and 6 hard, three of the latter in an indoor building whose blue roof and facade of stucco and columns hints at the other architecture within Shipyard.
Court fees: $15-$18/hour except for those on Van Der Meer clinic packages
Off Court
Beach: Only one tiny strip of the Shipyard property borders the beach, and that occurs in the extreme northeast corner just behind the Sonesta Resort. Low dunes tufted with grass separate the beach proper, which is enormously wide, from a line of palm trees and the hotel and beach club. Blue umbrellas stud the sand, which is otherwise cluttered with beach tricycles and chairs.
Golf Courses: Shipyard has 27 holes of golf.
Spa and Fitness Center: The Arum Spa at the Sonesta offers a variety of massages, body treatments, and facials. The Sonesta also has a fitness center open 24 hours a day to guests. It has cardio equipment, LifeFitness training stations, and dumbbells.
There are bike trails through the property but not much else in the way of other recreation.
Children's programs: The Sonesta has a children’s playground, and it also runs something called “Just Us Kids,”, a supervised, full- or half-day program available from Memorial Day to Labor Day for 6 to 12 year olds. Potty-trained 3- to 5-year-old can attend with the morning or afternoon half day session.
Accommodations
Getting there
Seasons: Tennis can be played year-round at Shipyard; however the beach loses its appeal from late November into early March, since the weather during that period can be chilly. On the other hand, some of the best bargains in lodging rates (and discounted clinics) also occur in winter.
Travel Instructions: By Air: Shipyard 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.
Covered courts in case of a rainy day, top notch instructors: my son loved his 20-hour tennis camp!
HH
The pro’s all had great personalities both on and off the court. They were skilled, experienced and worked our group of 20 quite hard. When you asked a particular question about a technique, they were ready with answers. It was a great experience, so great that most of our 20 guys have been coming back for years…including me. Thanks.
DB
It is the best, great instructors, great people, always the highlight of my tennis year. I play on numerous league teams and tournaments, but coming to Van Der Meer just makes tennis fun, no expectations, no pressure. It is enjoyable, relaxing and great fellowship.
GZ
Well located at Shipyard, Hilton Head, SC, VDMTC offers you a wide range of alternatives to improve your tennis; no matter what your choice is ( clinic, private lesson, stroke of the day ) always you will have dedicated Pro´s ready to teach a bit more of the sport while enjoying your vacations.
SP
The drill and play clinics are always great. 100% live ball workout. Last year we did a 2.5 day doubles clinic. It was very good.
BS
Great fun with good instructors. Made use of full time limit each day for maximum playing. Break down in levels had a disparity, at least for me who was stuck playing with the same three much weaker players the entire two and a half days. Wish they would have switched it up or paid attention.
SB
Wonderful area. Beautiful beaches and sights set a perfect backdrop for playing tennis. The staff was wonderful. Gabi and Louie were marvelous and my skills were improved x10 during a weekend adult clinic. Highly recommend.
LA
The instruction is always top notch. The facilities are in need of a face lift. Doesn’t impact play but if you are there for a week long vacation the feel and atmosphere is not that of a resort. We have been to this program at least 6 times-if would be nice for repeat customers to have a bit more variety of instruction as well as a reward program for repeat customers. Will return.
JD
Excellent facilities with indoor and covered courts, in case of rain. This is the only resort on Hilton Head Island with indoor courts, so you don’t have to worry if you are not able to play on rainy days. Teaching pro, Louie has been there for many years and will make your instruction fun.
GD
I spent two months this winter/spring in Hilton Head this year, splitting my tennis time between Van der Meer, Shipyard Tennis Club and Palmetto Dunes Tennis Centre. It gave me a good opportunity to compare the two. All things considered, my favourite place to play is still at Shipyard. Things have changed,, and not for the better since Dennis Van der Meer became ill, but it’s not all bad news. In fact from a player’s perspective, it is all good. The best news is that the tennis professional associat3d with Shipyard are still among the best on the Island. The clinics and lessons will help players at all levels to enhance their game. There are nearly always courts available for visitors who want to play. Usually, anyone involved in a clinic or a week long or week-end program has free access to courts if they are available, to work on the skills taught during the clinic or lesson. The drills used for advanced players, to hone their skills and strategies are second to none and keep players coming back year after year. I often saw groups of six to ten people who arrived together for a week or week-end of instruction to prepare for an upcoming USTA season I never saw any leave who were disappointed by the results. Accommodations on the Island vary from the Sonesta Grand Hotel, which is adjacent to the Shipyard tennis facility, to many other mid-range hotels and a variety of condominiums where visitors can enjoy a home-like atmosphere. The fantastic Hilton Head beach is literally steps away. So if you’re serious about becoming a tennis player, or an advanced player who wants to enhance your skills, and you are considering Hilton Head, SC, I’ll recommend Van Der Meer, Shipyard every time..
MM
This winter, I took a tour in my truck camper to escape the cold VT winter to head south – to learn some new skills by attending a few highly-rated adult tennis camps. I’m a 4.5 rated player and so I’ve had a lot of tennis lessons and clinics over the 25+ years I’ve been playing competitively. I’m writing up separate reviews for each of my visits to Saddlebrook, VanderMeer-Shipyard and Cliff Drysdale-Amelia Island. On the plus – the pros were friendly and accommodating; the grounds were very nice, and the Sonesta hotel was modern and very lovely – a great location. On the negative – the tennis experience! It was not great. First, the 6:1 teaching ratio is just too high. I asked about it and they said that is their norm; I was surprised and don’t recall reading this anywhere on the website, though maybe it’s there. Next, the level of players in my group. I asked well in advance about the level of players signed up for my target weekend and I was told that there was another 4.5 and a strong 4.0 – Ok, that sounded perfect, as having strong players in the group is key to a good clinic, since we’re doing many cooperative and competitive drills. There was one strong 4.0 male player, but the others were much lower level, which was disappointing. I asked about options and the pros asked another large private group of guys from GA if I could join their group, which I did for the second day. They were great guys, good energy and welcoming – a lot of fun. But the group was so large with only 2 pros that it wasn’t the experience I had hoped for. The pros and the guys I joined were super nice, but not a lot of individual attention or advanced drills or strategy – it was pretty basic – just too many on the court. They all seemed delighted though! Not every customer is looking for the same experience, though. I chose not to attend the third day, and instead enjoyed a bike tour of Hilton Head, my first time there. I gave this candid feedback to my contact at VanderMeer tennis in the sales dept and asked them to reply, but I didn’t receive one. I try to be fair, as I know that online reviews are critically important. My biggest request is that if a tennis camp is geared towards the 3.0-3.5 recreational club player, that’s fine – just be upfront about it. And if they do teach more advanced levels (which I had assumed that VDM does), then make sure your guests are matched up appropriately at all costs!! It was a frustrating experience, and I made sure they had this feedback from me directly. I can’t give great marks to the teaching pros since I didn’t get to experience their full abilities – the level and the size of the group was a major debilitating factor for a good experience.
FW
Great individual and small group instruction. Pros have excellent knowledge of the game and skills. They made learning fun and a great workout. Definitely feel it is a wonderful opportunity for a couple or for USTA team. We always love going in January or February.
TW
Awesome location for a fun tennis getaway. The pros are amazing – they provide the perfect balance of instruction and fun. There is a variety of daily clinics and round robin’s are offered daily for those seeking fun competition. Mostly clay courts, but a couple of hard court and even indoor should it happen to rain.
ES
very positive
JG
Great clinics, both inside if necessary or outside. The others taking the clinic we more or less at our skill level.
DH
Small group. Video analysis. Round robin after lessons. Good, not great, instruction.
KG
great instruction. wonderful location. lots to do. good food
MH
Just returned from the Boomer camp and was disappointed in the way it was organized. I emailed the camp director with my USTA rating (4.0) for correct placement in the group; when I got there, I found only 6 or so people ranging from beginner to 3.0 level. I would have appreciated a little due diligence from the organizers. They moved me into the advanced daily clinics where the participants varied daily. This was OK, except there was no consistency and not what I expected. I also felt the pros had their agenda and did not tailor the instruction to the group. I have done many clinics over the years and in most clinics, the pros feed 90% of the balls so the players get to hit and run. In these clinics, the players fed the balls at least 75% of the time and many times, the ball was hit in the net or out. Obviously, this style of teaching works for many people, but the next time I visit HIlton Head, I will try Sea Pines and Palmetto Dunes in particular. I also felt the pros were aware of the situation and might have tried to do some game matching, but again, they clearly only work within their own format.
MW
Great instruction. They take tennis seriously and push all participants to improve,
RA
Really enjoyed the drills this year! A smaller group made for more playing time, so we spent a lot of time hitting balls rather than watching! The scheduling by the pro shop left something to be desired this year – they were a bit disorganized and appeared to be understaffed.
MA
It’s a well-run camp. I didn’t particularly like the instructor I was placed with, but that’s not something I can hold against the camp. The other instructors were very good. They use video of all your main strokes so you can see yourself and have them analyzed with the instructor. The one thing I didn’t like is that they told me I would be in a strong group; but as a 3.5-4.0 player, I was one of two or three at that level; all the others were significantly lower. So that makes for a problem, and they weren’t level with me in advance about the general group level.
AR
My wife and I attended multiple times the weekly Adult tennis Programs, and found them very good, and good value for money. The instructors were very knowledgebale and helpful. We recoomend Van der Meer Tennis to all our friends.
JC
Twelve enrolled for our 3.5 day clinic, two of were 3.5/4.0s, the rest were 2.5s or less. This is too small a group for advanced players to have good clinic, but the managers did a good job customizing for us. Two of us ended up having semi-private lessons for 3 days. Courts are great! Worked out on har-tru except when torrential rain drove us to indoor courts. I picked up some good tips on strokes and volleys. It was not as organized or good instruction as I expected for the venerable Van der Meer brand. The young pro identified a couple if weaknesses in my play but offered no hints or corrections. We appreciated their response to the problem presented by our only having two advanced players. They did right by us, but it was makeshift. Just needed at least another pair or more of advanced players. If I learned they were going to have a strong advanced group I would consider this school again. Or, if I was staying in Hilton Head and wanted quality court time, maybe. Otherwise, not again for me. Too many other choices to take a chance on having the right mix of players.
SC
Enjoyed a 3 day clinic with 5 other tennis friends last October at Shipyard, led by Louie, who is always thorough and energetic about his teaching. Makes it fun. I can’t really say there were weaknesses in the programs. I appreciate the timeliness and keeping the clinics moving along. The first 15-30 minutes of warm up stretches, etc., could be dropped from the program, since players should prepare themselves before coming to court with their own routines. Also, rotating the players among the entire clinic participants; nice to play stronger opponents some instead of same level. Of course, stronger players would probably complain when faced with less skilled players.
BR
The facility is very nice with wonderful outdoor courts plus indoor for rainy days. The three primary instructors are as good as the come. But some of the assisting staff are a total waste of time. Zero people skills and when we tried to move things around be work with the good staff we got nowhere. They also offer no followup survey to voice your concerns. So after many years of attending Van Der Meer we will never go back and are using Saddlebrook. Much nicer and more professional place.
JO
My husband and I attended an adult weekend clinic and thoroughly enjoyed the coaching staff and drills. Groups are small so that individual attention can be given to each participant. It was an excellent opportunity to improve technique and learn new strategies.
MF
Dr. Louie, during one of the daily clinics, gave me the best serving lesson ever. Simple to repeat and it results in a strong service motion that holds up under pressure. Thank you, Dr. Louie!
ED
Got really great instruction. Loved the video so that everyone could see for themselves how they did. Wish we could’ve played more doubles matches. Enjoyed everyones company
SB
Strengths – Fine-tuned stroke mechanics & serves. I learned a lot. Louis and Chris were phenomenal. Weaknesses – Nature of the beast (with multiple people, not much one-on-one time with instructors).
RD
The pro’s were nice but the drills seemed to be less advanced than I wanted. The camp title was world class drills and the drills were not world class, not even close.
KC
Duran and Oscar and especially Louie are excellent instructors. I really appreciated the guidance on serves and forehand/backhand. I also really enjoyed the warm-up exercises, which I am still using. Changing up the instructors kept it interesting. My personal experience was mixed. I was placed at first in the weakest group, in which I out-performed. Then I was bumped up to the next level and I suppose I under-performed because I was placed back with the weakest group. I just wasn’t challenged. Further, the groups were too large. Last year (2010), there were only six people signed up for the camp. This year (2011) there were 20. Finally, Garrett was assigned most-often to my group. Unfortunately, at times he was pre-occupied with texting or checking out the French Open scores. He also called for water breaks more frequently than the other groups were breaking.
BS
Great camp. Andy and Bridge were spectacular pros. Would like more matchplay analysis. Didn’t think videos were particularly helpful. Staff was great.
RB
Great instructors.
PA
Strengths: The training was all around very good. The staff made good use of every minute available. They kept a good pace and showed exceptional skill in teaching the major points of the game with very good insight. The video analysis was great. Weaknesses: It was very hot (June) and the sun was very taxing, indoors would have been nice if only for the afternoon sessions. Practicing earlier or later under lights would have been nice. Picking up all the balls got old very quickly. More work on the service game would have been nicer.
DH
The experience from the time I registered online in January to the weekend of May13 to 15th was out of this world. The staff treated me great.
TA
Excellent Clinic for ALL levels. Tennis pro’s were fantastic and clinic was geared toward realistic match play.
SP
I would recommend the Drill and Play weekend for 3.5 and 4.0 players because the class size is ideal –one pro per 5 students, courts and club house are clean and well maintained. Helpful ,and well trained staff.
KM
We did the Drill and Play weekend clinic. We hit a TON of balls. The instruction was minimal and more global than targeted. The staff was energetic and fun.
BK
professionalism was great. No standing around; continual instruction.
AW
It was great! The Tennis Pros were extremely fun to work with! Louie was awesome!!! I left there feeling like I made alot of progress on all aspects of tennis.
RI
This was my third visit and it had been about twenty years since my last it was still a great refresher and a good workout. I’ll be back on the 2nd of May for the shot of the day.
PD
Great instruction and fantastic facility
EC
The teaching staff was excellent, and the drills were very helpful. I attended both the weekend camp and the advanced camp. I’m a 4.0 rated player, and I would recommend the advanced camp over the weekend one. The weekend one had mostly beginning-level players, although this might vary from weekend to weekend. But the advanced camp is limited to 4.0 and above, and it was really good.
ML
Outstanding stroke mechanics, incl stroke component detail followed by effective drills. All tennis, no misc stuff. Helpful video instruction. Good instructor communication with good personal attention. Great facility. 3 and 5 hr days demanding but right amount of work. Wouldn’t change anything.
KR
My children and I just attended the Van Der Meer tennis camp and loved it. The kids got a great workout, made improvements in their technique(they’re advanced players)and had a lot of fun. I did the week long adult camp – not as much running around but lot’s of emphasis on technique and mechanics. Video analysis was very helpful. Instructors were very good at breaking down the shots and rebuilding them. The adults seemed to be 3.0 to 4.0 players and probably in the 30’s to 50’s age range. If you need to improve your mechanics (don’t we all), get some exercise and have a fun time this is it! We stayed at the Marriott in Palmetto Dunes and drove over every day but the Crowne Plaza is right next door to the adult camp (kids camp approx 1 mile away).
CN
This is a great tennis camp. The pros are very knowledgeable and helpful.
PT
A thoughtful well-run camp that graciously accommodated me and one other player when there were inadequate numbers of players at our level.
DL
Good instruction and size of clinics. Excellent facilties
DM
I spent a week in a fantasy world where I did nothing but play tennis in the morning and afternoon. I loved it. Andy, assisted by different staff, really worked to improve our weaknesses without destroying our existing strengths. The drills were challenging and interesting and (mostly) fun. Even more important is the noticeable (and sustained) improvement in my game. If I could change one thing about my camp, I would match singles players with other singles players and doubles players with doubles players – if/when possible. Otherwise, I loved my time at VDM Shipyard and plan to return. I also raved about the experience to other friends – one already booked a weekend at the club (and loved it as well). Another plans to return with me later in 2011.
SM
The staff was excellent. They were friendly, helpful, professional, and great at what they did. As with any camp, make sure there are enough people of your level of play attending the week you choose if possible. I asked and they were very up front about the levels attending, so I changed weeks. Secondly, note what type of program is happening that week. I did the Drill & Play, which gave me great ideas for coaching, if I had wanted to work on specific strokes, I might have attended a different week. Van Der Meer offers all levels and varied types of programs. Their staff is excellent in helping you find the right type if you have some flexibility.
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140 Reviews on “Van Der Meer Tennis”
Covered courts in case of a rainy day, top notch instructors: my son loved his 20-hour tennis camp!
The pro’s all had great personalities both on and off the court. They were skilled, experienced and worked our group of 20 quite hard. When you asked a particular question about a technique, they were ready with answers. It was a great experience, so great that most of our 20 guys have been coming back for years…including me. Thanks.
It is the best, great instructors, great people, always the highlight of my tennis year. I play on numerous league teams and tournaments, but coming to Van Der Meer just makes tennis fun, no expectations, no pressure. It is enjoyable, relaxing and great fellowship.
Well located at Shipyard, Hilton Head, SC, VDMTC offers you a wide range of alternatives to improve your tennis; no matter what your choice is ( clinic, private lesson, stroke of the day ) always you will have dedicated Pro´s ready to teach a bit more of the sport while enjoying your vacations.
The drill and play clinics are always great. 100% live ball workout. Last year we did a 2.5 day doubles clinic. It was very good.
Great fun with good instructors. Made use of full time limit each day for maximum playing. Break down in levels had a disparity, at least for me who was stuck playing with the same three much weaker players the entire two and a half days. Wish they would have switched it up or paid attention.
Wonderful area. Beautiful beaches and sights set a perfect backdrop for playing tennis. The staff was wonderful. Gabi and Louie were marvelous and my skills were improved x10 during a weekend adult clinic. Highly recommend.
The instruction is always top notch. The facilities are in need of a face lift. Doesn’t impact play but if you are there for a week long vacation the feel and atmosphere is not that of a resort. We have been to this program at least 6 times-if would be nice for repeat customers to have a bit more variety of instruction as well as a reward program for repeat customers. Will return.
Excellent facilities with indoor and covered courts, in case of rain. This is the only resort on Hilton Head Island with indoor courts, so you don’t have to worry if you are not able to play on rainy days. Teaching pro, Louie has been there for many years and will make your instruction fun.
I spent two months this winter/spring in Hilton Head this year, splitting my tennis time between Van der Meer, Shipyard Tennis Club and Palmetto Dunes Tennis Centre. It gave me a good opportunity to compare the two. All things considered, my favourite place to play is still at Shipyard. Things have changed,, and not for the better since Dennis Van der Meer became ill, but it’s not all bad news. In fact from a player’s perspective, it is all good. The best news is that the tennis professional associat3d with Shipyard are still among the best on the Island. The clinics and lessons will help players at all levels to enhance their game. There are nearly always courts available for visitors who want to play. Usually, anyone involved in a clinic or a week long or week-end program has free access to courts if they are available, to work on the skills taught during the clinic or lesson. The drills used for advanced players, to hone their skills and strategies are second to none and keep players coming back year after year. I often saw groups of six to ten people who arrived together for a week or week-end of instruction to prepare for an upcoming USTA season I never saw any leave who were disappointed by the results. Accommodations on the Island vary from the Sonesta Grand Hotel, which is adjacent to the Shipyard tennis facility, to many other mid-range hotels and a variety of condominiums where visitors can enjoy a home-like atmosphere. The fantastic Hilton Head beach is literally steps away. So if you’re serious about becoming a tennis player, or an advanced player who wants to enhance your skills, and you are considering Hilton Head, SC, I’ll recommend Van Der Meer, Shipyard every time..
This winter, I took a tour in my truck camper to escape the cold VT winter to head south – to learn some new skills by attending a few highly-rated adult tennis camps. I’m a 4.5 rated player and so I’ve had a lot of tennis lessons and clinics over the 25+ years I’ve been playing competitively. I’m writing up separate reviews for each of my visits to Saddlebrook, VanderMeer-Shipyard and Cliff Drysdale-Amelia Island. On the plus – the pros were friendly and accommodating; the grounds were very nice, and the Sonesta hotel was modern and very lovely – a great location. On the negative – the tennis experience! It was not great. First, the 6:1 teaching ratio is just too high. I asked about it and they said that is their norm; I was surprised and don’t recall reading this anywhere on the website, though maybe it’s there. Next, the level of players in my group. I asked well in advance about the level of players signed up for my target weekend and I was told that there was another 4.5 and a strong 4.0 – Ok, that sounded perfect, as having strong players in the group is key to a good clinic, since we’re doing many cooperative and competitive drills. There was one strong 4.0 male player, but the others were much lower level, which was disappointing. I asked about options and the pros asked another large private group of guys from GA if I could join their group, which I did for the second day. They were great guys, good energy and welcoming – a lot of fun. But the group was so large with only 2 pros that it wasn’t the experience I had hoped for. The pros and the guys I joined were super nice, but not a lot of individual attention or advanced drills or strategy – it was pretty basic – just too many on the court. They all seemed delighted though! Not every customer is looking for the same experience, though. I chose not to attend the third day, and instead enjoyed a bike tour of Hilton Head, my first time there. I gave this candid feedback to my contact at VanderMeer tennis in the sales dept and asked them to reply, but I didn’t receive one. I try to be fair, as I know that online reviews are critically important. My biggest request is that if a tennis camp is geared towards the 3.0-3.5 recreational club player, that’s fine – just be upfront about it. And if they do teach more advanced levels (which I had assumed that VDM does), then make sure your guests are matched up appropriately at all costs!! It was a frustrating experience, and I made sure they had this feedback from me directly. I can’t give great marks to the teaching pros since I didn’t get to experience their full abilities – the level and the size of the group was a major debilitating factor for a good experience.
Great individual and small group instruction. Pros have excellent knowledge of the game and skills. They made learning fun and a great workout. Definitely feel it is a wonderful opportunity for a couple or for USTA team. We always love going in January or February.
Awesome location for a fun tennis getaway. The pros are amazing – they provide the perfect balance of instruction and fun. There is a variety of daily clinics and round robin’s are offered daily for those seeking fun competition. Mostly clay courts, but a couple of hard court and even indoor should it happen to rain.
very positive
Great clinics, both inside if necessary or outside. The others taking the clinic we more or less at our skill level.
Small group. Video analysis. Round robin after lessons. Good, not great, instruction.
great instruction. wonderful location. lots to do. good food
Just returned from the Boomer camp and was disappointed in the way it was organized. I emailed the camp director with my USTA rating (4.0) for correct placement in the group; when I got there, I found only 6 or so people ranging from beginner to 3.0 level. I would have appreciated a little due diligence from the organizers. They moved me into the advanced daily clinics where the participants varied daily. This was OK, except there was no consistency and not what I expected. I also felt the pros had their agenda and did not tailor the instruction to the group.
I have done many clinics over the years and in most clinics, the pros feed 90% of the balls so the players get to hit and run. In these clinics, the players fed the balls at least 75% of the time and many times, the ball was hit in the net or out. Obviously, this style of teaching works for many people, but the next time I visit HIlton Head, I will try Sea Pines and Palmetto Dunes in particular. I also felt the pros were aware of the situation and might have tried to do some game matching, but again, they clearly only work within their own format.
Great instruction. They take tennis seriously and push all participants to improve,
Really enjoyed the drills this year! A smaller group made for more playing time, so we spent a lot of time hitting balls rather than watching! The scheduling by the pro shop left something to be desired this year – they were a bit disorganized and appeared to be understaffed.
It’s a well-run camp. I didn’t particularly like the instructor I was placed with, but that’s not something I can hold against the camp. The other instructors were very good. They use video of all your main strokes so you can see yourself and have them analyzed with the instructor. The one thing I didn’t like is that they told me I would be in a strong group; but as a 3.5-4.0 player, I was one of two or three at that level; all the others were significantly lower. So that makes for a problem, and they weren’t level with me in advance about the general group level.
My wife and I attended multiple times the weekly Adult tennis Programs, and found them very good, and good value for money. The instructors were very knowledgebale and helpful. We recoomend Van der Meer Tennis to all our friends.
Twelve enrolled for our 3.5 day clinic, two of were 3.5/4.0s, the rest were 2.5s or less. This is too small a group for advanced players to have good clinic, but the managers did a good job customizing for us. Two of us ended up having semi-private lessons for 3 days. Courts are great! Worked out on har-tru except when torrential rain drove us to indoor courts.
I picked up some good tips on strokes and volleys. It was not as organized or good instruction as I expected for the venerable Van der Meer brand. The young pro identified a couple if weaknesses in my play but offered no hints or corrections.
We appreciated their response to the problem presented by our only having two advanced players. They did right by us, but it was makeshift. Just needed at least another pair or more of advanced players.
If I learned they were going to have a strong advanced group I would consider this school again. Or, if I was staying in Hilton Head and wanted quality court time, maybe. Otherwise, not again for me. Too many other choices to take a chance on having the right mix of players.
Enjoyed a 3 day clinic with 5 other tennis friends last October at Shipyard, led by Louie, who is always thorough and energetic about his teaching. Makes it fun. I can’t really say there were weaknesses in the programs. I appreciate the timeliness and keeping the clinics moving along. The first 15-30 minutes of warm up stretches, etc., could be dropped from the program, since players should prepare themselves before coming to court with their own routines. Also, rotating the players among the entire clinic participants; nice to play stronger opponents some instead of same level. Of course, stronger players would probably complain when faced with less skilled players.
The facility is very nice with wonderful outdoor courts plus indoor for rainy days. The three primary instructors are as good as the come. But some of the assisting staff are a total waste of time. Zero people skills and when we tried to move things around be work with the good staff we got nowhere. They also offer no followup survey to voice your concerns. So after many years of attending Van Der Meer we will never go back and are using Saddlebrook. Much nicer and more professional place.
My husband and I attended an adult weekend clinic and thoroughly enjoyed the coaching staff and drills. Groups are small so that individual attention can be given to each participant. It was an excellent opportunity to improve technique and learn new strategies.
Dr. Louie, during one of the daily clinics, gave me the best serving lesson ever. Simple to repeat and it results in a strong service motion that holds up under pressure. Thank you, Dr. Louie!
Got really great instruction. Loved the video so that everyone could see for themselves how they did. Wish we could’ve played more doubles matches. Enjoyed everyones company
Strengths – Fine-tuned stroke mechanics & serves. I learned a lot. Louis and Chris were phenomenal. Weaknesses – Nature of the beast (with multiple people, not much one-on-one time with instructors).
The pro’s were nice but the drills seemed to be less advanced than I wanted. The camp title was world class drills and the drills were not world class, not even close.
Duran and Oscar and especially Louie are excellent instructors. I really appreciated the guidance on serves and forehand/backhand. I also really enjoyed the warm-up exercises, which I am still using. Changing up the instructors kept it interesting.
My personal experience was mixed. I was placed at first in the weakest group, in which I out-performed. Then I was bumped up to the next level and I suppose I under-performed because I was placed back with the weakest group. I just wasn’t challenged.
Further, the groups were too large. Last year (2010), there were only six people signed up for the camp. This year (2011) there were 20. Finally, Garrett was assigned most-often to my group. Unfortunately, at times he was pre-occupied with texting or checking out the French Open scores. He also called for water breaks more frequently than the other groups were breaking.
Great camp. Andy and Bridge were spectacular pros. Would like more matchplay analysis. Didn’t think videos were particularly helpful. Staff was great.
Great instructors.
Strengths: The training was all around very good. The staff made good use of every minute available. They kept a good pace and showed exceptional skill in teaching the major points of the game with very good insight. The video analysis was great.
Weaknesses: It was very hot (June) and the sun was very taxing, indoors would have been nice if only for the afternoon sessions. Practicing earlier or later under lights would have been nice. Picking up all the balls got old very quickly. More work on the service game would have been nicer.
The experience from the time I registered online in January to the weekend of May13 to 15th was out of this world. The staff treated me great.
Excellent Clinic for ALL levels. Tennis pro’s were fantastic and clinic was geared toward realistic match play.
I would recommend the Drill and Play weekend for 3.5 and 4.0 players because the class size is ideal –one pro per 5 students, courts and club house are clean and well maintained. Helpful ,and well trained staff.
We did the Drill and Play weekend clinic. We hit a TON of balls. The instruction was minimal and more global than targeted. The staff was energetic and fun.
professionalism was great. No standing around; continual instruction.
It was great! The Tennis Pros were extremely fun to work with! Louie was awesome!!! I left there feeling like I made alot of progress on all aspects of tennis.
This was my third visit and it had been about twenty years since my last it was still a great refresher and a good workout. I’ll be back on the 2nd of May for the shot of the day.
Great instruction and fantastic facility
The teaching staff was excellent, and the drills were very helpful. I attended both the weekend camp and the advanced camp. I’m a 4.0 rated player, and I would recommend the advanced camp over the weekend one. The weekend one had mostly beginning-level players, although this might vary from weekend to weekend. But the advanced camp is limited to 4.0 and above, and it was really good.
Outstanding stroke mechanics, incl stroke component detail followed by effective drills. All tennis, no misc stuff. Helpful video instruction. Good instructor communication with good personal attention. Great facility. 3 and 5 hr days demanding but right amount of work. Wouldn’t change anything.
My children and I just attended the Van Der Meer tennis camp and loved it. The kids got a great workout, made improvements in their technique(they’re advanced players)and had a lot of fun. I did the week long adult camp – not as much running around but lot’s of emphasis on technique and mechanics. Video analysis was very helpful. Instructors were very good at breaking down the shots and rebuilding them. The adults seemed to be 3.0 to 4.0 players and probably in the 30’s to 50’s age range.
If you need to improve your mechanics (don’t we all), get some exercise and have a fun time this is it! We stayed at the Marriott in Palmetto Dunes and drove over every day but the Crowne Plaza is right next door to the adult camp (kids camp approx 1 mile away).
This is a great tennis camp. The pros are very knowledgeable and helpful.
A thoughtful well-run camp that graciously accommodated me and one other player when there were inadequate numbers of players at our level.
Good instruction and size of clinics. Excellent facilties
I spent a week in a fantasy world where I did nothing but play tennis in the morning and afternoon. I loved it. Andy, assisted by different staff, really worked to improve our weaknesses without destroying our existing strengths. The drills were challenging and interesting and (mostly) fun. Even more important is the noticeable (and sustained) improvement in my game.
If I could change one thing about my camp, I would match singles players with other singles players and doubles players with doubles players – if/when possible.
Otherwise, I loved my time at VDM Shipyard and plan to return. I also raved about the experience to other friends – one already booked a weekend at the club (and loved it as well). Another plans to return with me later in 2011.
The staff was excellent. They were friendly, helpful, professional, and great at what they did. As with any camp, make sure there are enough people of your level of play attending the week you choose if possible. I asked and they were very up front about the levels attending, so I changed weeks. Secondly, note what type of program is happening that week. I did the Drill & Play, which gave me great ideas for coaching, if I had wanted to work on specific strokes, I might have attended a different week.
Van Der Meer offers all levels and varied types of programs. Their staff is excellent in helping you find the right type if you have some flexibility.