2008 ATA Summer Camp

            The process has now begun for Celebration of Youth to bring to its readers a weekly edition that will highlight a summer programme that your child can join. If you are a person involved in a summer programme, please contact me so that we can give it some exposure. This week and next, the public will start to see the Anguilla Tennis Academy’s Summer Camp advertised. Although plans have not been finalized, the camp has such a long history that gives me the ability to speak about it in general terms. Since 1996, the ATA founder and its staff have brought world class tennis to Anguilla for a low cost. From what I have gathered, it is apparent that this programme is one of the longest running and is heavily supported by children, parents, local businesses and Government. Children have a great time with the coaches and this year, just like 2007, participants will get to play at a brand new facility rivalled by no other in the Lesser Antilles.

            This year’s camp will begin on July 7 and run to the 25. The registration fee will be the same as it has been for the past 5 years; US per child is they register before July 1, and US if they register late. The cost includes a camp T-Shirt, rackets, prizes and all other necessary equipment. The venue of course is the Anguilla Tennis Academy located in Blowing Point. Sessions will begin at 8:30, with other sessions beginning at 10am and 4pm. More information on exact times will be divulged in the future and one can always visit the ATA’s new website at www.anguillatennis.com for the registration forms which should be ready by next week.

            This year’s camp will be full of prizes and gifts provided by Wilson Sporting Goods and some of the international coaches will be bringing gifts. In the past, the numbers of participants have neared three hundred, yet this year three policies will be heavily enforced: 1. No children under five years of age will be accepted 2. No more than 200 participants will be allowed to join therefore the ATA staff highly suggests that you register your child ASAP 3. Children must be picked up immediately when their session is over. In the past, too many children have had to wait for almost an hour for their mother or father to come. If a child cannot have reliable transportation, he or she will be asked to leave the camp.

            The ATA Summer Programme will definitely be the best in 2008 as the new facility will be completely open and functional by May. This is a very exciting time for the ATA staff and board members as they are eager to finally open its doors to the Anguillian public. For more information, please visit the new website or call the Anguilla Tennis Academy at 498-0697.