Since 1982, we have established many wonderful traditions. At ESF, every day in camp is an opportunity to create memories that span generations. This may be why so many of our Alumni (former campers and "Team" members) are still very involved. Some are famous, some less so, but all of them still love ESF because it's a special place where they spent their summers. Here are just a few of our Tennis Camp Traditions:
ESF Grand Slam Tournaments
Throughout the course of the summer, campers will have an opportunity to compete in ESF's version of The French Open, Wimbledon, The US Open, and The Australian Open.
Tennis Camp Pennant
The Pennant is considered the "yearbook" of camp and is signed by all the campers and counselors. The Pennant serves as a symbol that will recall many memories that a child will treasure forever.
"The Ceremony"
Every Friday at Tennis Camp, after the skills have been taught and the games played, Tennis Campers come together for "The Ceremony." At The Ceremony, campers are honored for their hard work, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Campers are awarded pins for displaying these characteristics. Last day campers are also honored and given their Tennis Camp Pennant signed by their teammates and coaches to take home and treasure forever. At the conclusion of The Ceremony, a special award called The Coaches Award, is presented to the camper who possesses all of the Tennis Camp values.
The Rally Marathon
This is a chance to go for the ESF world record of rallying a tennis ball back and forth with a partner and beating Michael Rouse's record (set back in 1980) when his sneaker came off in the process!
Target Madness
This is a chance for campers to use the skills they learn and test them out in a fun game of target tennis where campers hit specific targets for points.
Gratitude Rock
The newest ESF tradition, the ESF Gratitude Rock is given each day to someone who has performed a random act of kindness. Each team passes their Rock along to someone each day at Morning Assembly. While the Rock always stays at camp, whomever is chosen receives a "you rock" card from the presenter, which then can be taken home as a reminder of their random act of kindness.
