Inwood Country Club hosts Kids’ Tennis Festival

Inwood Country Club opened up ten of its tennis courts to members of the Inwood community as 300 children, parents and volunteers attended the first ever Kids’ Tennis Festival, hosted by The Inwood Charities Fund Inc. along with the USTA Eastern/Long Island Region.
Volunteers and guests included the Baldwin and Lynbrook high schools girls varsity tennis teams, and tennis professionals from the Inwood Country Club.
“This is hopefully the first of what will become an annual event,” said Lionel Goldberg, tennis chairman and board member of the Inwood Country Club. “It’s a way to give back, help the local community, and support local youth programs.”
The day began with QuickStart drills for the children ages 12 and under, coached by the high school girls, along with volunteer tennis pros.
“We feel so lucky to be here to help and expose children to tennis,” said Shari Bowes, coach of the Lynbrook squad. “Bringing my varsity athletes here enables them to show their talents and to serve as role models for these young children.”

After a round of games, everyone had a chance to win prizes, including U.S. Open shirts, towels and stickers, thermoses, bracelets, wrist bands and key chains.
“The whole event was really fun,” said participant Yosef Eouth. “This is my second time playing tennis. I like just being on the court in the sun and hitting with my friends.”
The Inwood Charities Fund Inc. was started 15 years ago by members of the Inwood community to support local charities and employee scholarships.
“Through the sport of tennis, we hope kids understand there are alternatives out there and find a respect, integrity and love for the game of tennis,” said Andy Shivins, Inwood Charities Fund Inc. president.