Marian Gardillo sets up for a backhand during the Slammer Tennis World jamboree.

Photo Credit: Tom Renner

Paul Iannacone of LA Fitness in Norwalk gives tips on the proper way to do push-ups to Bilal Memom.

Photo Credit: Tom Renner

Rebecca Link keeps her eye on the ball as she hits a backhand.

Photo Credit: Tom Renner

Cal Dobson follows through on a backhand.

Photo Credit: Tom Renner

Corrina Anich, 8, keeps her eye on the ball as she prepares for a backhand.

Photo Credit: Tom Renner

Bilal Memom and and a friend listen as Paul Iannacone talks about fitness.

Photo Credit: Tom Renner

Chrissy Kirst watches her shot after a backhand.

Photo Credit: Tom Renner

Marian Gardillo gets ready to hit.

Photo Credit: Tom Renner

Cal Dobson connects on a backhand during the jamboree.

Photo Credit: Tom Renner

Students in Slammer Tennis World classes hit tennis balls, ate snacks and learned about balance as part of the sixth annual free jamboree last week at Mathews Park in Norwalk.

The players participated in tennis games and also got a lesson in training from Paul Iannacone, the director of training at Norwalk's LA Fitness. Kitty Rodriguez, a seventh grade science teacher at Rippowam Middle School in Stamford, also spoke to the youngsters about the importance of maintaining academic responsibilities.

The free jamboree is a reward offered by Slammer Tennis World coach Marvin Tyler for the hours of dedication the players put in during the winter at the Ben Franklin School. "It's our way of giving back to the kids and also to the parents, for all the work they've done over the past few months,'' Tyler said.

The players loved it, too, especially trying to win prizes such as tennis balls and other goodies donated by Tyler and LA Fitness. "It's nice to get outdoors and get the outdoor season started,'' said Marion Gardella, 13, a longtime student at Slammer Tennis World. "It's nice to be able to get out in a fun environment."

The jamboree was originally scheduled to last for three hours. However, thanks to Mike Mocciae, the Director of Norwalk Recreation and Parks in Norwalk, the players stayed even longer because of the new lights that were put in over the tennis courts.

"We had a good turnout,'' Tyler said. "I'm happy to be able to do this for the kids and let them have some fun while also practicing the techniques that they learned indoors."

Did your young tennis player enjoy the tennis jamboree? Start the discussion below!