What is AD-IN – Tennis for Kids?
AD-IN – Tennis for Kids is a Hot Springs Village-based, non-profit organization that provides free tennis lessons, clinics, equipment, and events for Garland and Saline County children ages 7 to 18.
AD-IN began two years ago, with the maiden tournament (event) last October. Eighteen youngsters, along with eighteen seniors, participated. Willy Nothern, Webmaster and Board Member for AD-IN – Tennis for Kids, shared, “This service is not income-based, but need-based. There was a family with three children in college and another younger child. College is expensive, so we provided tennis lessons for the youngest child. We help single mothers and single parents when their children are interested in learning about the game of tennis. We are flexible.”
According to the AD-IN website, Too many children, ages 7 – 18, have been priced out of playing youth sports. Some of these sports programs have shifted from school-based to club-based, which can create a financial barrier for many families.
The children receive free private or group lessons. Everything is provided, even tennis shoes, if needed. Arrangements can be made for transporting the child to and from lessons if the parents are unable. Willy said, “All the children have to do is show up.”
Having played tennis for over 30 years, Willy said, “Tennis is a life-long sport. I know 90-year-olds who are still playing tennis. They don’t hit it hard but know exactly where to put it.”
Originally from Ohio, Willy said she moved to Hot Springs Village after discovering her Dallas tennis coach moved here, and he recommended the Village.
Currently, the organization has one individual who sponsors a child. The sponsor pays for the child and provides transportation to the lessons. “Previously, we had another individually sponsored child who became so good that the family moved to the Little Rock area where the competition is more readily available,” enthused Willy. The organization sponsors the rest of the children.
How to apply for AD-IN
To apply for the program, contact Hot Springs Village Tennis Pro Bob Wagstaff or apply here on the AD-IN Website. Nothern explained, “Hot Springs Village Tennis Pro Bob Wagstaff is in charge of program signups and works with the physical education departments at Fountain Lake and Jessieville Schools. “Bob Wagstaff gives the lessons and works well with kids and adults, stated Willy.”
Willy said that all are welcome to participate.
The Hot Springs Village Coronado Tennis Center is located at 151 Ponderosa Lane. Contact Tennis Pro Bob Wagstaff at (501) 922-5054 for more information.
What does AD-IN mean?
The organization’s name is a clever play on a tennis scoring term. Ad means advantage. The word “advantage” in tennis refers to a situation where one player temporarily leads their opponent during a match. “When the score is tied at 40-40 (also known as a deuce), advantage happens when one player scores the subsequent next point. In this instance, the point winner is said to be in a favorable position and has a chance to win the game if they take the next one.”
The organization uses the term “AD-IN” to signify its intention to add as many youngsters as possible to the program.
Junior – Senior Event Coming Soon!
Rather than use the word “tournament,” the organization prefers to say “event.” AD-IN invites young tennis players between 11 and 18 to participate in a junior-senior event at the beautiful Hot Springs Village Coronado Tennis Courts on Saturday, October 28, 2023. This one-day event allows young tennis players to be matched with an adult partner. HSV Tennis Pro Bob Wagstaff pairs participants based on ability. The matches will be a round-robin format, with everyone playing at least three matches.
The event entry fee is $25, which includes balls, lunch, and court time. Various snacks and water are also provided for event participants. Box lunches for spectators are available for $10. If necessary, AD-IN will provide transportation for the children. Melinda’s is catering the lunch. The entry deadline is Saturday, October 21, 2023. Spectators are encouraged—proceeds from the tournament fund local youth tennis activities.
Entry forms are available at the Coronado Tennis Center.
Board and Advisory Board Members
The AD-IN Board of Directors includes Sharon Chermay, Bonnie Dorman (President), Bonnie Douglas, Rose Farrell (Secretary), Bobbi Gruwell, Irena Nelson (Treasurer), Willy Nothern, and Karen Roberts. The AD-IN Advisory Board comprises Katherine Biek, Ryan Biek, Allyn Florini, Paul Nothern, and Bob Wagstaff.
By Cheryl Dowden; images provided by AD-IN
