By By STEVE FRANKLIN, Sports Writer
Washington Racquet Club owner Dale Peele knows how important it is for kids to start playing tennis at an early age.
The former high school tennis coach has seen first hand how a few years of experience can pay off once you reach the varsity level.
So, in an effort to increase the area’s talent level, last fall, Peele launched a pair of Washington Racquet Club youth teams — a 14-and-under team and a 12-and-under team.
The two teams compete in the United States Tennis Association’s Down East League, a three-team organization for both the 12 an 14 year olds.
Peele, who has decided to field a team for the first time in a decade, feels that the junior program will teach the kids techniques and ettiquette that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.
While individual tennis tournaments are designed to be competitive and exhilerating, team tennis is designed for the kids to learn the game and techniques. It also gives them a chance to work with teammates and have fun with a group of peers.