Tuesday night's Junior racquetball practice at Indiana State University was a strong indication that what I'm doing is working.

We had the most kids on one court in all the 5 years I have been doing this.

14 kids!!!! I was like so wired and energized. I was all over the place.

I did have one coach (also a player on team) and I had to use one of the older kids who was there (but couldn't play because of school and attitude) as a coach.

I had 3 courts drilling with a group on each court. It was nice.

Even one of the parents was like "you need help...you have a lot of kids". I thanked her but I got it together and a little more situated.

By the end of the 2.5 hour practice I could tell all the kids had fun. We had our meeting and I could feel the energy.

We have a tournament this weekend and I have 5 of the juniors in it. Along with 2 of my collegiate players as well.

With State Singles right here in Terre Haute next month I anticipate a few new junior faces are going to be participating as well. I think we just may have more juniors at State Singles this year than we have had in a long time in Indiana.

I'm really ecstatic about this 6 year old I have. He is beating all the kids. We give him multi bounce as he has every right to it and he beats everyone but his older brother who is 15 years old.

As I have always said...its a numbers game.

the more juniors exposed to racquetball and with proper direction the more that will stick.

We need more junior programs around the country with more volunteer coaches.

I bet the volunteer part is the hard part. Not the juniors participating. They will come if there is any club.

If you are interested in starting a club in your area and would like to discuss some options please contact me.

This sport truly is amazing and offers so many benefits to juniors.

Manny

=d> Congratulations Manny! =d>

Developments such as this are the inspiration to keep up your hard work.