Smashing Success: Rylee Greene’s Free Tennis Program for Youth
Greene Central High School's tennis standout, Rylee Greene, is giving back to her community by offering free tennis lessons to children aged 5-11. With an impressive high school tennis record of 92 wins and only 19 losses, Greene has remained undefeated in conference play throughout her high school career. She is a 3-time all-conference player, 2-time all-region selection, and was named to the 2022 all-state team. Additionally, she has twice been a conference and regional doubles champion, and a 2-time state qualifier.
Rylee Greene, alongside her doubles partner Aubree Smith, has been sharing her passion for tennis with the next generation. Smith, who also boasts an impressive tennis record, has been instrumental in supporting Greene's initiative.
A Passionate Leader
Greene’s commitment to tennis and her community is evident in her dedication to the program.
"I did this as a little kid when I first started, when I was 8. I started my tennis career with quick start lessons, and it has kinda died out," Greene explains. "The goal was to get a lot of kids started, get kids excited for middle school tennis, and expand the legacy of Greene Central tennis a little bit."
Teaching the quick start lessons holds a special place in Greene’s heart.
"Being able to teach kids the same way I was introduced to tennis is really special to me," she says. The joy and excitement she sees in the young participants reinvigorate her love for the sport. "They are so excited to learn anything new, they come out here jumping with joy. It brings joy to the sport."
Relating to the Kids
Greene sees herself in the kids she teaches. "A lot of them are around the age when I started, mostly around the third grade. I teach 5-11 year-olds, and many of them started exactly like I did with the same flaws. I am able to relate and tell them, ‘Hey, I did this before too, it’s normal, it is okay.’"
Most of the kids come with minimal equipment, but Greene has a solution.
"We have a bunch of used donated rackets from the past. I came out there with a basket of rackets and said, 'Let's find one your size and let's learn how to play.'"
Community Support and Parental Involvement
The response from parents has been overwhelmingly positive. "We had like 16 kids come out on day two; we were slammed packed. It normally ranges from 5-8 kids. The parents are super supportive; they ask questions. Most kids that didn't own a racket at the beginning now own their own."
Aubree Smith’s Perspective
Aubree Smith, who helps Greene with the lessons, shares her enthusiasm. "I enjoyed helping kids with tennis because the same thing happened to me. I came out here when I was seven with Coach Donald Clark, who taught me everything I know. It is just fun reliving it."
Smith, who also excels in track events such as hurdles and high jump, finds joy in giving back through tennis. Greene, who once ran to stay in shape, decided to focus on something she truly loves. "I'm going to give back with a sport that I like," she says.
Greene and Smith’s initiative not only helps foster a love for tennis among young kids but also strengthens the community's connection to the sport. Their efforts ensure that the legacy of Greene Central tennis will continue to grow.
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