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Marvin Tyler loves teaching tennis to children in the community. The only thing he might love more is giving back to the parents and players who support his programs at Slammer Tennis World.
Tyler gave back Thursday in the form of his fifth annual Tennis Jamboree at Ben Franklin School. About 40 children who play in Tyler's after school programs hit forehands, backhands and serves in the party-like atmosphere. The jamboree was free for the players, who ranged in age from 5-17.
Tyler teaches children three days a week at Franklin. His youngest group, ages 5-8, plays on Tuesdays. Juniors, ages 9-16, play on Wednesday and advanced players hit on Thursday. Tyler keeps his groups small to focus on individualized instruction. "I work with quality, not quantity,'' says Tyler, who has several classes each day. He also offers an instructional program on Fridays for adults.
Perhaps the greatest benefit for Tyler is watching children develop. Marcus Hooks, a freshman on the Brien McMahon High School tennis team, started with Tyler. Another student, Christine Randall, plays on the Norwalk tennis team. Tyler's passion for children and tennis comes through with every student. He also teaches students in New Canaan and Stamford.
"I'm a coach, but I'm like a third parent,'' Marvin says. "I'm teaching life skills. Hopefully they'll apply what they've learned into their everyday life. I'm firm with them, but gentle."
While Tyler works with children, he also develops strong relationships with parents. He will supply racquets if necessary and works with them on payment plans, transportation or any other issue that might arise.
"In this economy, we understand there are hardships and sacrifices,'' Marvin says. "We don't want a kid to miss out on tennis if they want to play."
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