TennisWorks Programs
In-SCHOOL & AFTER-SCHOOL
On the court, our programs provide physical activity through tennis, a chance to be exposed to a sport that may be new to them and learn new skills, an opportunity to practice life skills in action, such as perseverance, self-regulation, and dealing with winning and losing, as well as a focus on their athletic development. Off the court, there is a continued focus on life skills development, youth engagement in decision making, experiential learning, and connecting all youth to a supportive community.
“When TennisWorks students step onto the court, they’re practicing more than just tennis. ”
As youth get older and their interest in tennis is sparked, the TennisWorks program grows with them to provide a range of relevant athletic, academic, leadership, and service opportunities. Scholarships are provided into additional junior tennis programs for youth who are interested in taking their tennis games to the next level. Off the court, the link between tennis and education is further fortified for Middle School youth through partnerships with Gustavus Adolphus College and Macalester College. Providing real-life experiences on college campuses, youth participate in field trips, tennis themed science projects, and overnight retreat camps. TennisWorks is also expanding to focus on maximizing our supportive community to offer career exploration events, on-the-job learning experiences, and leadership projects that benefit the Fort community.
By centering youth voices and bridging tennis with off-court experiences, we aim to inspire youth to define success and strive to achieve it.
FEARLESSLY GiRL
Fearlessly GiRL (FG) is an internationally-recognized organization whose mission is to “help girls boost confidence, be kinder to themselves and others, and fearlessly take the lead in their lives, schools, and communities.” Professional tennis player, Madison Keys, is a Fearlessly GiRL ambassador. She sparked The Fort’s interest in starting a Fearlessly GiRL club here and meeting the need for an all-female space. In this space, we work through intentional curriculum about topics like self-esteem, self-advocacy, leadership, and mental and physical health. We also do team building activities, and of course, play tennis!
To learn more about getting involved in FG, please contact Coley Brown, Program & Engagement Coordinator.
Boys Leadership Team
Boys Leadership Team (BLT) provides tennis, leadership, and team-building activities. BLT sessions take place twice a month on Fridays during the school year.
Sessions typically include on-court tennis games, field trips, and discussions facilitated by TennisWorks coaches. The topics often relate to self-identity, leadership, gratitude, and positivity.
BLT members are mainly high school players who already participate in TennisWorks programs.
To learn more about getting involved in BLT, please contact David Stingley, TennisWorks Program Manager.
TennisWorks Academy
TennisWorks Academy is a series of week-long summer camps that engage youth in hands-on tennis and academic enrichment activities designed to build confidence and self-awareness, spark curiosity, open doors to new experiences, and deepen a sense of belonging within our supportive community.
TennisWorks Academy is open to current students in grades 3 - 12 with priority registration for youth currently in a TennisWorks program and those who are eligible for the federal free or reduced lunch program.
Transportation to and from camp is available to students within our transportation radius. Contact us for more details if transportation assistance is required. There is no cost to participate.
To learn more about getting involved in TennisWorks Academy, contact Leslie Oskey, Director of Youth Development & Community Impact.
Stay tuned for registration information for the Summer 2026!
High school internship program
The FWTEC Internship Program is for high school students who have participated in TennisWorks and/or Junior Programs at FWTEC. Our objective is to provide high school-aged players with an exploratory opportunity to experience a variety of jobs/tasks and career options with the support through mentoring. This internship is designed to teach basic professional skills, provide a foundation for each role experienced, and build their community within tennis. Students will work alongside professionals in various jobs throughout the Fred Wells organization and our partners with USTA Northern.
To learn more about becoming a FWTEC High School Intern, please contact Coley Brown, Program & Engagement Coordinator.
FRIDAYS AT THE FORT
Fridays at The Fort connect middle and high school students from around the Twin Cities to tennis and to each other with an intentional focus on recruiting youth who have less access to indoor tennis opportunities.
This event is FREE for all participants! The format is high-energy, coach-fed games. All abilities levels are welcome. Tennis racquets are available for use. Pizza is served at the end of each court time!
We encourage pre-registering for these events to ensure we can properly plan and make these nights as fun as possible. To learn more and to find the link to pre-register, click below.