pee wee tennis (ages 3-5)

We offer tennis enrichment activities for students enrolled in Brooklyn Kindergarten Society (BKS). We currently teach classes at all seven BKS centers throughout Bed-Stuy, Crown Heights, and Brownsville: Nat Azarow, Howard, Tompkins, Brevoort, Weeksville Gardens, Cleaveland, and Sumner. The purpose of the program is to introduce young students to tennis, build hand-eye coordination, and have fun.

 

community tennis (ages 5-15)

Through large group and peer-to-peer activities, our programming uses tennis as a vehicle for social-emotional growth and relationship building. Every session we emphasize 3 categories: tennis skills, Positive Youth Development, and movement, so that all students have the means to improve their tennis, access a safe space to learn and grow, and engage in exercise.

Winter

We offer Winter community tennis on Saturdays at Ingersoll and Tompkins Community Centers to the following age groups: 5-7, 8-10, and 11+. Each age group has a one-hour session.

For more info, or to register, click the button below:

Spring

We offer Spring community tennis during the week at Marcy, Lafayette Gardens, and Jackie Robinson (Brevoort) to the following age groups: 5-7, 8-10, and 11+. Each age group has a one-hour session.

For more info, or to register, click the button below:

 

Summer

We offer Summer community tennis on Saturdays at all of our sites: Marcy, Lafayette Gardens, Jackie Robinson (Brevoort), Sumner, Tompkins, and Ingersoll. On court, we develop tennis skills through activities and games. Off court, we build social-emotional skills, foster relationships, and create community. Students of all ages (5-15) participate in the same 2-hour session.

For more info, or to register, click the button below:

Fall

We offer Fall community tennis during the week at Marcy, Lafayette Gardens, and Jackie Robinson (Brevoort) to the following age groups: 5-10 and 11+.

Each age group has a one-hour session.

For more info, or to register, click the button below:

 

Specialty tennis (ages 5-18)

UpSwing (ages 8-18)

UpSwing is for students who show a particular interest in or dedication to improving their game. In UpSwing programming, students receive specific and technical coaching in smaller groups, while staff and volunteers intentionally challenge growth and encourage students to set and manage goals. UpSwing is invite only.

GoGirlGo! (ages 5-18)

GoGirlGo! combines curriculum from The Women's Sports Foundation with tennis lessons and on-court activities. The objective is to encourage regular physical activity, develop and maintain self-respect, self-confidence, and a positive self-image for KCTL girls.

Semi-private Lessons (ages 8-18)

Semi-Privates are small-group lessons that allow coaches to work with students on their form, footwork, and technique to supplement other programming they attend. Semi-private lessons are invite only.

 

Education (ages 13-18)

KCTL partners with multiple educational organizations to provide academic support and guidance for middle and high school, college, and beyond. Program staff meet with students and families to learn about their interests and challenges and then recommend appropriate resources and workshops.

Bottom Line (Juniors and Seniors)

KCTL refers multiple rising seniors to Bottom Line each year. Their College Access Program helps students of color get into and complete college with limited debt, and find jobs or continue their education after graduating.

Winward Academy (8th graders and up)

A select number of KCTL students get free access to SAT and ACT prep, college knowledge resources, and career exploration modules through Winward Academy. Program staff ensure that students have access to their accounts and study plans as well as track their progress to help them stay on track.

Eagle Academy Foundation (9th graders and up)

In partnership with Eagle Academy Foundation, KCTL students attend workshops related to career exploration, the college search and application processes, the basics of financial aid, and general postsecondary success.

For more information about any of our education offerings, please contact jamie@kctl.org.

 

Jobs Program and Volunteering (ages 13-18)

Jobs Program (ages 15 and up)

Each Summer, a cohort of KCTL high-school students are invited to apply for a paid position as a Site Assistant. They assist staff members by setting up play spaces, running drills and activities, and mentoring young students. Site Assistants also attend weekly staff meetings and participate in professional development workshops throughout the Summer to strengthen their career readiness experience.

Volunteer-in-Training Program (ages 13-15)

This initiative allows older KCTL students, based on staff recommendation, to take the first steps towards being a coach. They work more closely with adult staff and volunteers, teach younger students, and sharpen their leadership skills – all while continuing to learn the sport of tennis. Once students turn 16, they can register as official Volunteers.

 

More about our programming

The KCTL Pathway includes a wide variety of opportunities for students living in and around public housing in Brooklyn. Our tennis and education programs are intentionally delivered within a supportive Positive Youth Development environment by staff and volunteers who engage authentically, encouraging the Social-Emotional development of our students. 

Each student has distinct skills, needs, and goals. For some players, playing high-school tennis or tournament drives them, so UpSwing and Semi-Private Lessons are the way to go. For others, having fun, forming connections, and learning new things matter most, so their track includes Community Tennis, the Buddy Program, and studying with Winward Academy. Through our programming, we aim to foster meaningful relationships, cultivate a love for the game, and impart the tools needed to succeed in life.