LEWISTOWN – As the Pennsylvania sun begins its summer waltz, the tennis courts of Mifflin County are poised to become a stage for a delightful drama.

The MiffCo Community Tennis Organization is set to unfurl a series of five programs, each designed to welcome players of every age and skill level into the fold.

“I will post links to all five of the summer schedule on our Facebook page,” said Edna Snook, Mifflin County Tennis Provider. “People will be able to get more information and register there.”

The summer lineup begins with “Kid Connection” on Saturday at Lewistown Recreation Park. This four-hour event runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and welcomes children ages 2 to 12, alongside adults interested in sampling Beginning Adult Red Ball Tennis. The adult program uses modified equipment and scoring systems originally designed for younger players.

Imagine, if you will, a vibrant display of children, their laughter echoing through the park as they swing their tiny racquets. Alongside them, adults, perhaps a bit hesitant but eager, will sample the delights of Beginning Adult Red Ball Tennis. It’s a scene reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting, where the spirit of community and the joy of sport intertwine.

The event serves a dual purpose beyond instruction. If ten participants register, Mifflin County Community Tennis qualifies for a $500 grant from the United States Tennis Association (USTA).

“The USTA is promoting local tennis events and the benefits of the sport during May, national tennis month,” Snook explained.

Following the May kickoff, tennis continues with “MegaSports Vacation Bible School” from June 9-13 at Belleville Sports Field and Community Building. The program runs weekday mornings from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and targets children entering grades 1-5 in fall 2025. Participants experience multiple sports, with tennis and pickleball instruction from the ever-enthusiastic Snook. The $10 registration fee supports the church program rather than Mifflin County Community Tennis.

June brings two additional focused programs. The “MiffCo Summer 10 Years to Teens Program” meets Wednesdays and Saturdays at the High School Tennis Courts. Participants pay $5 per session or $30 upfront for all eight sessions.

Adults receive dedicated attention through the “MiffCo Red Ball Adult Lesson” on Saturdays in June. This $20 program welcomes both true beginners and former players looking to reconnect with the sport.

For players seeking competition, the “MiffCo Adult Summer Doubles League” starts May 9. The league meets Fridays from 4 to 6 p.m. at Mifflin County High School Courts for pickup doubles. Players may arrive solo or with partners. While some tennis experience helps, participation remains free.

Snook, whose credentials include certification through the United States Tennis Association Professional Tennis Registration (Level 1) and the Professional Pickleball Registry, emphasizes the need for program expansion through extra instruction.

“I need more trained coaches,” Snook said. “Potential coaches should have at least played the game. Then they will receive online training and Safeplay requirements. The last lesson for coaches is an in-person training on the court.”

The comprehensive summer schedule aims to increase tennis participation across age groups while making the sport accessible to newcomers. The red ball approach, featured in both the Kid Connection event and adult lessons, represents an entry point designed to build confidence through modified equipment and rules.

Parents must register children under 18 for all programs. Complete information and registration links for each program appear on the MiffCo Community Tennis Facebook page.

The five-program schedule creates multiple entry points for community members to engage with tennis. From the free doubles league to the affordable teen sessions at $5 each, the pricing structure removes financial barriers while offering structured instruction.

Kid Connection establishes an intergenerational approach, letting adults and children develop skills simultaneously. This mirrors tennis itself–a lifetime sport where players of different ages and abilities often share courts and experiences.

The MegaSports Vacation Bible School introduces tennis within a multi-sport context, potentially attracting children who might otherwise never encounter the game. By partnering with an established community program, MiffCo Community Tennis extends its reach beyond traditional tennis circles.

The teen program recognizes the developmental needs of older youth, creating age-appropriate instruction across eight June sessions. The twice-weekly format enables skill development through consistent practice and reinforcement.

For adults, the red ball program acknowledges the intimidation factor many newcomers face when approaching tennis. By utilizing equipment scaled for success rather than frustration, the program creates psychological safety for adult learners.

The doubles league rounds out the offerings by providing structured play opportunities without formal instruction. This creates a progression pathway where players from instructional programs can eventually transition to regular gameplay.

Registration for all programs happens online through program-specific links. The Kid Connection registration deadline carries particular significance due to the potential USTA grant funding tied to participant numbers.

The community-centered approach extends to coaching development. Snook’s call for additional instructors highlights the organization’s commitment to sustainable programming through volunteer engagement and skills development.

The summer 2025 schedule reflects a balanced approach to tennis promotion, offering specialized instruction while maintaining community accessibility. From toddlers to seniors, beginners to returning players, the five programs create multiple on-ramps to tennis participation.

The comprehensive calendar showcases tennis as both a sport and a social connector. Through affordable entry points, age-appropriate instruction, and diverse formats, Mifflin County Community Tennis positions itself to grow participation while maintaining program quality.

Community members seeking more information about any of the five summer programs can visit the MiffCo Community Tennis Facebook page or access the registration links directly:

– Kid Connection: May 10, Lewistown Recreation Park

https://playtennis.usta.com/miffcocommunitytennis/EventsV2/Book/a8b5fe22-41f7-4d90-ab3c-d527147045f0

– MegaSports Vacation Bible School: June 9-13, Belleville Sports Field

https://share.fluro.io/form/680cf1b57a642b0036058153

– Teen Program: Wednesdays and Saturdays in June, High School Courts

https://playtennis.usta.com/miffcocommunitytennis/Coaching/Book/c63af08d-7365-4cde-9c41-e948065b9171

– Adult Red Ball Lessons: Saturdays in June

https://playtennis.usta.com/miffcocommunitytennis/Coaching/Book/5da123f2-faa2-4e1a-8d3c-af5d321dc066

– Adult Doubles League: Fridays beginning May 9, High School Courts

https://playtennis.usta.com/miffcocommunitytennis/SocialLeagues/League/23d37c27-5f36-46bd-91e4-7b6885365947

All registrations for participants under 18 require parent completion.