Tennis at Pemi

lthough tennis has been played at Pemi since the earliest years of camp, in the last decade it was become such a comprehensive program that it easily rivals those offered by specialty camps. Over two-thirds of the boys at camp are involved in the instructional program, and claim spots on the tennis ladders available in five age groups. Boys may challenge their peers to move up the ladder, with the top 12 in each age group gaining eligibility for intercamp matches. In-camp competition for spots on the ladder allows boys of all abilities to have a meaningful role in this process. Beginners will always feel comfortable starting from scratch at Pemi, but the breadth and quality of instruction also allows advanced and even ranked players. Two years ago, a longtime Pemi camper took the summer off from camp to win the National 12 and under Clay Court Singles Championship.

In addition to the everyday challenge of competition for spots on the tennis ladder, and several in-camp tournaments, campers have many opportunities for intercamp competition. In addition to playing matches with neighboring camps of all levels, which allows many boys to compete, Pemi competes successfully with the best camp competition in the region, including several tennis-only camps.

Much of the responsibility for Pemi's tennis Renaissance belongs to Mac Dunlap, a retired United Airlines pilot and former Dartmouth athlete who oversaw the Pemi program for nine years and established the highest standards for instruction, competition and sportsmanship. These standards have been maintained since his retirement by a number of experienced coaches, many of them varsity athletes, overseen by experienced college coaches.

Current Head of Tennis Jeff Greene will be returning this summer for his third season. Head Coach of Men's and Women's tennis at Manhattanville College, Jeff (one year removed from an undefeated season) has coached on the college level for over ten years and been a teaching professional for over 20. He has also played on a national level in age-group singles and doubles.