Summer Camp Sports Program - Tennis

The Utica City School District is seeking qualified candidates for


Summer Sports Camps (Tennis)

What is it? A Youth Sports Summer Program featuring Basketball, Football, Baseball, Softball, Swimming, Track & Field, and Lacrosse is more than just play-it's a strategic investment in student wellness, safety, equity, and achievement. This program will not only keep youth active and safe during the summer but will also support the urban school district's broader mission to educate the whole child-mind, body, and spirit.


Who is it for? Utica City School District students entering grades 4-12

When are the Sports Camps? July and August 2026; Times (daytime - exact times to be determined)

Program Focus: Basketball, Football, Baseball, Softball, Swimming, Track & Field, Lacrosse, Tennis, Cheerleading, Wrestling, Golf, Cross Country, Soccer, Volleyball


Urban communities face distinct challenges during the summer, including limited access to safe recreational outlets, increased youth vulnerability, and a lack of structured programs that foster development outside the classroom. A Youth Sports Summer Program centered around a diverse range of team and individual sports offers a powerful solution that addresses students' health, safety, engagement, and opportunity gaps.

1. Promotes Health and Fitness Through Varied Sports Options

Each sport-Basketball, Football, Baseball, Softball, Swimming, Track & Field, and Lacrosse-provides a unique physical and developmental benefit:

• Basketball and Football develop agility, coordination, and team dynamics.
• Baseball and Softball teach focus, timing, and strategy.
• Swimming enhances cardiovascular health and is a lifelong safety skill.
• Track & Field supports individual goal-setting and personal fitness.
• Lacrosse introduces students to a growing sport not traditionally offered in many urban areas, promoting equity in access.

This range ensures all students can find a sport that interests them while staying active and healthy.

1. Offers a Safe and Structured Summer Alternative

Summer often sees spikes in youth disengagement, exposure to unsafe environments, and increased idle time. A sports program offers a structured, supervised, and safe environment during critical hours of the day. This keeps students engaged, off the streets, and surrounded by positive adult mentors and coaches.

1. Builds Critical Life Skills and Character

Participation in sports instills essential life skills such as:

• Teamwork and leadership (Football, Basketball, Lacrosse)
• Discipline and responsibility (Track & Field, Swimming)
• Perseverance and resilience (All sports)

These attributes translate directly to academic and life success, reinforcing school district goals around social-emotional learning (SEL) and positive behavior development.

1. Encourages Academic and Career Exploration

The program can integrate academic components tied to sports, such as:

• Sports science and kinesiology (Track & Field, Swimming)
• Data analysis and statistics (Baseball/Softball)
• Writing and communication (sports journalism, play-by-play reporting)

This helps combat summer learning loss while introducing students to future career pathways in athletics, health sciences, and media.

1. Increases Equity and Opportunity

Offering lacrosse and swimming, which are often less accessible in urban areas, levels the playing field for students who may not otherwise have exposure. This opens doors for college scholarships, regional/national competition, and greater cultural and athletic diversity in the district.

1. Strengthens Community and Family Ties

Hosting end-of-session tournaments, swim meets, and community field days encourages family engagement and fosters pride in both student achievement and school district programming. It also provides opportunities for local partnerships with athletic organizations, colleges, and community centers.


Requirements:

• NYS Coaching Certification
• Interscholastic Coaching experience in the sport
• CPR/FA for coaches or responding to emergencies/AED
• Concussion Management Certification
• Fingerprint Clearance

Rate of pay: $40/hour; Not to exceed 20 hours