Legacy Youth Tennis and Education
Title: Serving Philadelphia’s Youth Through Sport: Legacy Youth Tennis and Education
Student Interns:
Anushka Kumar
Drexel University College of Medicine
Melanie Stender
Drexel University College of Medicine
Academic Preceptor:
Daniel R. Taylor, DO
Drexel University College of Medicine, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children
Community Preceptor:
Devynne McClelland
Legacy Youth Tennis and Education
Community Site:
Legacy Youth Tennis and Education offers accessible, high-quality seven-week summer tennis camps at nearly 20 locations across Philadelphia. These free or low-cost camps provide young athletes with tennis instruction, mentorship, and the chance to compete in an inter-site tournament, with winners earning a trip to the U.S. Open. Legacy’s community-based programs are designed to build strong athletes while promoting fitness, character development, and inclusivity. Additionally, through its Out-of-School Time (OST) program, Legacy partners with local Philadelphia schools to offer safe, engaging, and supportive childcare during both the summer and after-school hours.
Team’s Experience:
The Bridging the Gaps student interns worked at Pleasant Playground, one of several Community Tennis Camp locations operating across Philadelphia. The interns worked alongside Pleasant Playground Community Tennis Camp leadership, including tennis coaches and junior instructors, to support a variety of activities — from leading warm-ups and organizing skill-building drills to facilitating group games. Beyond the court, the interns contributed at the Legacy Youth Tennis and Education Center, where they handled camper sign-ins and assisted with essential program logistics. The interns also volunteered weekly at Pennell Elementary School’s Out-of-School Time program, where they led interactive health discussions on topics like hygiene and personal care, and stepped in to help with classroom and recreational activities whenever needed.
Reflections
“Spending the summer at Legacy Youth Tennis and Education gave us the opportunity to connect with kids in ways that were both fun and deeply meaningful. Some of the most impactful moments didn’t come from structured drills or games, but from simple one-on-one interactions that made campers feel seen and supported. These moments taught us the importance of meeting children where they are and being intentional about creating opportunities for all to grow. We also gained a deeper appreciation for how community-based programs reduce barriers to access and provide safe, consistent spaces for connection and development. This experience has strengthened our commitment to approaching healthcare with empathy, patience, and a strong focus on equity.”
Anushka Kumar & Melanie Stender