Serving Success: Inside the Graded Winter Tennis Camp

Before classrooms filled with students for the start of the new school year, the tennis courts at Graded were already buzzing with activity.

Nine students spent the final week of the school break participating in the Graded Winter Tennis Camp, a five-day program that allowed them to stay active while learning the fundamentals of tennis or taking their game to the next level.

Each day began with energetic warm-up activities designed to develop coordination, agility, and movement, followed by tennis-specific drills. Through games and exercises that simulated serves, forehands, and on-court movement, students strengthened their technical skills while building confidence in a positive, encouraging environment.

“Our goal is for students to have a fun tennis experience while learning more than just the sport,” said Coach José Vinicius Motta, who also teaches tennis in Graded’s After School Program. “We want them to develop respect, discipline, and confidence, but in a lighthearted, playful way. It should never feel heavy—it should be enjoyable.”

For rising ninth-grader Mia T., the camp was also an opportunity to prepare for the next step in her athletic journey at Graded. Mia and her twin brother, Theo, enrolled together with a goal in mind.

“Now that we’re going into High School, tennis becomes a selective sport,” she said. “We wanted to attend the Winter Camp to improve our game and see if we could reach the level needed to make the selective team.”

Whether they stepped onto the court for the first time or arrived focused on preparing for the upcoming season, every camper left with something new—stronger skills, greater confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the game.

“Programs like the Winter Tennis Camp give students a meaningful way to stay active, sharpen their skills, and strengthen their connection to Graded and our Athletics program, even during school breaks,” said Fernando Archila, Graded’s Director of Athletics and Activities.

At Graded, athletics are about more than competition. Through camps, after-school programs, and competitive teams, students have opportunities throughout the year to challenge themselves, build meaningful relationships, and grow both on and off the court.

Interested in learning more? Explore Graded's Athletics and Activities programs and year-round opportunities by visiting the Graded Athletics and Activities Page and following @Graded_Eagles on Instagram.