In the summer of 2025, young players in Atlantic Beach had the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of tennis through a Youth Tennis Summer Camp at Jack Russell Park. The three-week camp offered instruction for children across multiple age groups on the park’s six public courts in the heart of the Duval County. 

This was the first time that tennis summer camp was offered here, and it was made possible through a grant from the USTA Florida Section Foundation. The grant provided the support needed to bring structured youth tennis programming to Jack Russell Park. 

More than 20 campers attended across the three weeks, filling 80 percent of available spots. Many of the children were introduced to the game of tennis for the very first time. Feedback from families was overwhelmingly positive, both on-site and through post-camp surveys. 

“My three children, ages 8, 10, and 12, truly enjoyed the recent tennis camp,” one parent shared. “This was their first experience with formal tennis instruction, and they absolutely loved every single day. Coach Bill was fantastic, his teaching style was clear, engaging, and made a real impression on all three kids. My 12-year-old has already started playing with me regularly and has completely fallen in love with the game.” 

Many other parents added that they would love to see more programming offered throughout the year and expressed hope that the Atlantic Beach tennis community could grow similar to what neighboring Jacksonville Beach offers, with opportunities like team play and expanded options for players of all ages. 

That enthusiasm is already shaping what comes next. The community’s response was very positive, and the summer camp is set to return this year. 

To learn when 2026 Summer Camp registration opens, visit the City of Atlantic Beach tennis page. 

To help support programs like the IF You Foundation Tennis Academy, the USTA Florida Foundation offers multiple ways to give. The Play Tennis Florida license plate is a great way to show your tennis pride, with 90 percent of all proceeds directly benefiting the USTA Florida Foundation and its grant programs. You can also visit ustafloridafoundation.com/recurring-donation to make donations toward these grants.  

About the USTA Florida Foundation  

With a mission of Changing Lives through Tennis, the USTA Florida Section Foundation provides financial support to organizations that help people of all ages and abilities improve their health and quality of life through the great game of tennis. To learn more about Foundation grants and how to apply, visit ustafloridafoundation.com/apply. The 2026 Grant cycle will open in February.