Whether they become singles or doubles standouts by the time they get to high school, are looking for a sport to keep them active throughout their lives, or want to enhance skill sets in other sports, girls and boys stand to benefit from learning the nuances of the game of tennis at a young age.

That is how Annie Stephenson, director of Newtown Parks and Recreation Summer Tennis Camps, views the benefits of the instruction she provides during several weeks of sessions for players ranging in age and ability, at Dickinson Park throughout the summer. Beginner players learn the rules of tennis, including scoring.

Regardless of how far a particular player wants to take his or her game, building foundational skills can benefit them at any point in time. Courts are open for recreational players of all abilities — and ages.

“That’s the beauty of tennis. Once they learn they have the love of the game and it’s like riding a bicycle,” Stephenson said. “We don’t teach competition. It’s about doing your best and the technique.”

The mental aspect of the game — “You have to stay focused,” Stephenson noted — is something that will help shape these young athletes.

And the crossover with a variety of other sports is a plus.

“The movement is similar to basketball and soccer, and it’s a running game. They have to learn how to move and anticipate,” said Stephenson, adding that the hand-eye coordination aspect of tennis translates to the game of lacrosse, for example.

Instructors include current Newtown High School players as well as those who recently graduated high school. Among them is 2025 NHS graduate Sophia Dutsar, who enjoys working with the youngest campers.

“I love it. I feel like teaching them at this age makes the most impact,” said Dutsar, adding that she gets a kick out of interacting with the campers. “They’re fun — they’re cute.”

“It’s great. I love tennis and being able to teach the skills I’ve learned over the years is a great way to spend my summer,” said Liam Conlin, another recent NHS graduate.

Sessions are offered for beginner, advanced beginner, low intermediate, and intermediate, ages 5-7, 7-9, 10-12, and 13-16, Mondays through Thursdays. Camps are held 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, from the middle of June into mid August. Cost is $240 per session. For information, visit newtown-ct.gov/parks-recreation.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.