The Racket Revolution: More Than Just Tennis These Day
A Look at Inclusivity and the Future of the Game
It’s always fascinating to delve into the grassroots of the sport we love, to see what’s happening beyond the Grand Slam headlines. Recently, I had the chance to listen in on a local interview that really got me thinking about the evolving landscape of racket sports. The conversation featured Grayson Blanchard, the Director of Racket Sports at Seven Hills in Dallas, Georgia, and his insights were truly illuminating. While the rise of pickleball and the discussion of top-tier talent were certainly engaging, it was the segment on their special needs tennis program, “Special Pops,” that truly resonated with me and highlighted the power of sport to impact lives in profound ways.
What immediately grabbed my attention was the undeniable surge of pickleball. Grayson confirmed what many of us have observed: the sport is booming. He pointed out the relatively quicker learning curve as a key factor in its popularity, especially for juniors and adults looking for an accessible and social activity. While he emphasized that becoming a seasoned tennis player often takes a decade of dedicated training, pickleball allows folks to get match-ready in a matter of weeks. This accessibility is clearly a game-changer, and it’s smart to see academies like Grayson’s embracing it, even launching a junior pickleball academy alongside their established tennis program. This forward-thinking approach ensures they cater to a broader range of interests and abilities within their community.
But don’t think for a second that tennis is taking a backseat. Grayson’s passion for the traditional game is evident. His academy caters to all ages, starting kids as young as four, and it’s heartwarming to hear about former junior players now joining adult teams. He has a coaching team of five certified tennis pros, each with their own area of focus within the community. They offer a variety of programs, including private and group lessons, teen coaching, and even ball machine rentals, demonstrating their commitment to fostering a love for tennis at all levels.
However, it was the discussion about the Special Pops program that truly stood out. Grayson gave full credit to Betsy Shepherd and Dodie Thomas for their work in this incredibly important initiative. He explained that Seven Hills participates in this program, which has training sites throughout Atlanta, catering to adults and juniors with a wide range of special needs, including autism and Down syndrome. What struck me was his genuine enthusiasm and the profound impact this program has had on him and his team.
“I’ll be honest,” Grayson said, “it’s like the highlight of our season.” They run the program twice a year, on Monday nights, for eight-week seasons. The turnout is fantastic, with kids and adults participating, supported by a dedicated team of helpers and volunteers. Grayson humbly admitted that while he participates, he largely follows the lead of others, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the program.
What truly moved me was Grayson’s reflection on what he’s learned from the participants. He shared how some of these individuals have shown him completely new ways of thinking about the game and hitting the ball. After 21 years of coaching tennis, he admitted that his jaw often drops at the ingenuity and unique approaches he witnesses. He described it as “the most humbling and inspiring thing ever,” even suggesting that we might see future pros adopting some of these unconventional techniques. This speaks volumes about the power of inclusivity and the mutual learning that occurs when individuals of all abilities come together through sport. They are even looking to expand this wonderful initiative into pickleball, with the hope of making it a year-round offering. This commitment to adaptive sports programs is truly commendable.
Beyond the Special Pops program, what struck me most was Grayson’s philosophy on coaching in general. He champions authenticity and empowering players, emphasizing that tennis is a lifetime sport with incredible physical and mental benefits. He believes in fostering an environment where coaches connect with players on a genuine level, creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere. His “weird woo answer,” as he called it, about the law of attraction in coaching resonated with me – finding that right energy and connection is crucial for both the coach and the student. He prioritizes a coach’s awareness of their own energy and the ability to create a positive environment over simply having an impressive playing pedigree. This approach fosters a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all, including those participating in tennis programs for individuals with disabilities.
The discussion then shifted to the mental and physical demands of tennis. Grayson shared a personal anecdote about stepping back into competitive play after years away, highlighting the importance of staying present in the moment. He believes that physical training should become muscle memory, allowing players to focus on the mental game during matches. His description of the flow state, that coveted zone where thought fades and instinct takes over, perfectly encapsulates the magic of competitive tennis. This mental fortitude is crucial at all levels of the game, and it’s something that coaches like Grayson strive to cultivate in their students.
Finally, we touched on the exciting talent emerging in the professional ranks. Grayson’s enthusiasm for players like Taylor Fritz, Jannik Sinner, and Coco Gauff was infectious. He pointed out the incredible evolution of the game, with modern techniques pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the court. His analogy of a prime Andre Agassi facing today’s top players really underscored this point. He also highlighted the extended careers of modern players, thanks to advancements in medical technology and training. This longevity is inspiring and keeps the sport exciting for fans like me.
Listening to Grayson, it’s clear that the world of racket sports is vibrant and dynamic. While tennis will always hold a special place in my heart, the rise of pickleball is an exciting development, bringing more people to the joys of racket-and-ball games. But perhaps the most inspiring takeaway from this interview was the dedication to inclusivity demonstrated by the Seven Hills tennis academy. Their Special Pops program is a shining example of how sports can break down barriers and provide incredible opportunities for individuals with special needs. It underscores the profound benefits of tennis for special needs individuals, fostering physical activity, social interaction, and a sense of accomplishment.
For anyone in the Dallas, Georgia area looking for community tennis programs or pickleball lessons, or who might be interested in learning more about their adaptive tennis programs, Grayson can be reached directly at (770) 265-5532 or via email at [email address removed]. It’s initiatives like the Special Pops program that truly make a difference and remind us that the love of sport can be shared by everyone, regardless of ability. These inclusive sports programs are vital for building strong and supportive communities, and I commend Grayson and his team for their commitment to making tennis and pickleball accessible to all.
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