“With the hot weather, it has not all been serious tennis coaching, but other skills-based games and some opportunities to cool off have all been part of the program this week,” Ridland said.

“I have had help from my assistant coach Corey Greenwood in supervising skills activities for the group.

“About half the youngsters were new faces, so we are hoping we will get some new club members from the group

“Some of the older juniors from the club who have come along to the camp have also lent a hand with the activities, in between some match play.”

Ridland agrees with Railway Tennis Club coach Steve Erwin that this time of year is ideal for introducing youngsters to the sport as matches on television help boost their enthusiasm for it.

This week, Ridland will be coaching at Crookwell on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

He still offers after-school coaching on Monday afternoons, recommencing from January 30.

Children of all ages are encouraged to come along from 3.30pm.