​CONNEAUT — A lot has changed in the 21 years since Dave Simpson and Doug Hedrick launched the Conneaut Tennis Camp. While new courts mark a major transformation, the core goal remains the same: teach the fundamentals of tennis while instilling valuable character lessons, according to Simpson. He noted that he served as the head tennis coach for Conneaut High School and Hedrick led the junior high program when the camp began.
During its early days, the camp drew 15 participants for a week of activity at the SPARC-Ricaurte Tennis Courts. The campers, ranging from third to eighth grade, returned for multiple sessions throughout the week. “We emphasize different skills,” Simpson explained, describing the diverse drills that were designed to blend skill development with lighthearted competition. The overarching objective, he said, is to ensure that the activities are enjoyable while still challenging the students to improve.
The camp places a strong emphasis on maintaining a sense of fun through engaging activities and games, all while reinforcing core tennis techniques. Simpson highlighted the contributions of several longtime tennis players who helped run the program: Beth Thomas, Joe Zappitelli, and Paul Kosner. Their continued involvement has been a staple of the camp, he added.
Key technical aspects are stressed each day, with a focus on developing consistent strokes and accurate shot placement. Simpson pointed out that, in tennis, consistency and precision often prove just as important as raw power. By refining how the ball is struck and where it goes on the court, young players can build a solid foundation for future success.
Beyond technique, the camp introduces four additional dimensions of the game: depth, which refers to how deep a shot travels into the opponent’s court; ball spin, which affects trajectory and control; and power, which, when combined with control, differentiates effective players. “The best players can blend power with control,” Simpson remarked, underscoring the balance required to excel.
Character development is woven throughout the program. Each day includes lessons on listening, exertion, and sportsmanship, reinforcing the idea that tennis is as much about attitude and effort as it is about mechanics. The campers are encouraged to respect teammates and opponents, strive for improvement, and demonstrate perseverance both on and off the court.
Hedrick reflected on the camp’s longevity with a mix of humility and appreciation. He admitted he didn’t foresee himself still involved when the project began 21 years ago, but he recognizes the value the program offers. “We have had a good run,” he said, noting that the experience remains enjoyable and that the players continue to gain meaningful benefits from their participation.
The Conneaut Tennis Camp operates under the sponsorship of the Conneaut Recreation Department, a partnership Simpson highlighted as essential to the program’s ongoing success. The collaboration provides resources, structure, and support that help sustain a project that has become a staple of the community’s youth sports offerings. As the camp evolves with new facilities and growing interest, its blend of skill development and character education continues to shape young athletes, keeping the spirit of the original mission intact while embracing the opportunities of modern courts and coaching techniques.