She hosted a successful adult program this fall
Rokhsha Michael-Razi loves both tennis and fitness and wants to share those passions with everyone in Cornwall.
… And beyond!
She is the Town Board liaison to the town’s Recreation Department and has been a tennis coach for 10 years. She said this week that she enjoys volunteering to plan, organize and run opportunities to residents in the most affordable and relaxed atmosphere to try tennis.
“This sport is contagious and fun!” she said.
Michael-Razi just recently completed a three-week adult tennis clinic at the Cornwall tennis courts, but is already planning a similar series for next spring in Cornwall. She’s also hoping that she can spread “tennis fun” to other communities in the Hudson Valley.
This past Saturday — “on a crisp and sunny day”– about a dozen people were on hand for the clinic. For that session, in addition to Michael-Razi instructing, they had USPTA certified coach Chris Trieste on hand to lead some drills.
“The fee was $10 a session, and we opened it up to anyone who wanted to play,” Michael-Razi, a town councilwoman, said this week. “We provided racquets and balls — all people had to do was show up and want to play.”
She said they attracted both newcomers to tennis and returning players.
“I invited USTA Clinician of the year from NYC Johnny Benoit to visit and teach with me,” she said. “Also had the pleasure to have Coach Dennis Maher, former NFA tennis head coach to join one Saturday as well.”
Michael-Razi has previously hosted clinics for children and youth. She’s a dedicated tennis player, avid hiker and also coaches the O’Neill High School varsity boys’ and girls’ teams.
“The goal is to make my community healthier and happier and to expand and grow tennis in Orange County,” she said.
Anyone interested in starting similar programs in the region can contact Coach Rokhsha at Ms.Rokhsha@gmail.com for advice and help.
Information about the next adult and junior clinics will be announced via Coach Rokhsha’s facebook page. Due to popularity and great reception, we will offer this clinic in spring.
