- November 23, 2024
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Aaron Lieberman, age 7, bats the ball over the net with ease. Photos by Anastasia Pagello
Victoria Napoleon, Giuliana Giannini and Isabella Napoleon
Palm Coast Tennis Director Eric Dubin leads the kids on a warm-up lap around the courts.
Marcella Warner, age 10
Professional tannis player Brandon Donaldson from Palm Beach, and ranked in the top 300 in the United States .
Tiffany Francis, age 11
Over 40 kids lined up along a tennis court fence to listen to instruction given by professional tennis player Brandon Donaldson, of Palm Beach, who is ranked among the top 300 in the United States. Donaldson walked the kids through basic stretches to warm-up, then challenged the older kids to a series of matches.
“Seeing the pros working hard, they inspire me to work just as hard as them.” Nina Wells, age 14
“When I was younger I had people who worked with me, that were constantly motivating and inspiring me to become what I am today,” said Donaldson. “It feels good to give back in the same manner, and be there as a role model for these kids.”
The Palm Coast Tennis Center hosts the USTA Pro Circuit Men’s Futures Tourney every year.
“This is a great opportunity for the kids to engage with professional athletes, who also share the kid’s passion for tennis,” said Debby Stanfield. “Once you get the kids on the court, they get
into the sport, and the ardor for tennis keeps them healthy and active.”
Parents watched, and cheered on their kids from the sidelines, as they each took turns serving balls across the net to Donaldson.
“Seeing the pros working hard, they inspire me to work just as hard as them,” said Nina Wells.
Nina, age 14, aspires to be a pro tennis player. “I appreciate that they would take the time to come out play tennis with us today.”
