VCU SportsCenter offers tennis-based mentoring program to Richmond inner-city youth

Some of Richmond’s inner-city youth are learning lessons in life and tennis that range from racquets to reading and studying to scoring through a tennis-based mentoring program, Lobs & Lessons.

The after-school program, administered by the VCU SportsCenter and sponsored by Genworth Financial, began in September 2004 with 50 children from the William Byrd Community House.  With the help of additional volunteers and donations, Lobs & Lessons recently added the Sacred Heart Community Center and its 70 children as it expands into other parts of the community. 

Three days a week the program serves Richmond's inner-city youth, ages 6-13.  On Mondays participants meet at the VCU Thalhimer Tennis Center for tennis lessons and other leadership games that focus on communication, teamwork and hand-eye coordination. The mentors go on Wednesdays to the Sacred Heart Center for academic mentoring, and Thursdays are used for mentoring and life skills at the William Byrd site.

Kathleen Bowles, director of Lobs & Lessons, along with graduate students from the SportsCenter, members of the VCU tennis team and other local volunteers serve as the program facilitators.

“This first year of Lobs & Lessons has been great,” Bowles said. “The feedback we have received from the community centers is very positive and there is a notable impact the program is having on the children."

The program is part of Advantage Virginia, a VCU-led initiative to develop community programs like Lobs & Lessons, which organizers hope will attract professional tennis events to Richmond.

Lobs & Lessons is dedicated to serving Richmond inner-city youth and is always seeking volunteers and donations.