Ever since I was a little kid I've enjoyed watching Tennis and I, for as long as I can remember, have always said that one day I am going to be a tennis player. My mom heard those words and decided to enroll me at U-TURN Sports Performance Academy. When I first started I didn't know how to play tennis, actually I had never touched a tennis racket before in my life. Here at U-TURN, I get the professional training that I need to be able to play well as an individual and as a team. The Coaches here at U-TURN are not only great trainers but spiritual leaders as well. Here they teach us how to grow in the natural as athletes and in Spirit, because they understand the two combined makes us warriors.

 

Now when I step on the court I have a whole new respect for the game. I know it takes determination, desire, and practice in order to push forward. I know it's more than just having a big serve, an awesome groundstroke or backhand, but it's loving and respecting the game and giving it your all. I've also learned that if you pay close attention to the coaches and try to master what they teach, you will do well when it's match time.

 

The dedicated coaches here at U-TURN have enabled me to understand the game of tennis so now I can work on building up my confidence and my mental focus on the court. Since the coaches here have played on a professional level themselves they have the ability and desire to push me to the higher level. U-TURN is a great place to come and learn overall tennis skills. I love coming here.

Angel Robinson, U-TURN Tennis

 

When I first came to U-TURN Sports Performance Academy a few years ago, my life was totally different than how it is now. I have grown so much- not only with basketball, but in my spiritual walk as well. The trainers have turned into mentors, and the athletes have turned into friends.

 

Walking into the doors of U-TURN feels like entering my second home. I spend about five days there during the week, and I never get sick of it. I eat there, I do my homework there, and I relax there, but every day, I learn something new about my sport, my religion, and myself. The bible studies we participate in are directed towards athletes, so we can easily take what we learn to heart because it is taught in a way that we can understand. The skills we are taught are all linked to the Bible including leadership, partnership, integrity, and friendship (just to name a small few). I've taken each of those skills and put them to work with the support of my trainers and coaches. For example, I have become a leader in our community through my work with the Community Outreach Council, where I serve as co-chairman and take action in U-TURN's community service activities. This just shows that everything we learn is important and used in our day-to-day lives.

 

No matter your athletic ability or your knowledge of the Bible, you always feel accepted and welcome at U-TURN. Everyone is always smiling and so easy to talk to. I've learned so much, and I'm really grateful that I have found a place like U-TURN. It has truly changed me in so many ways for the better.

Holly Chapman, Basketball, AAU Basketball, COC

Our experience with U-Turn has been absolutely fantastic, and the folks there have been instrumental in some awesome growth and changes in my son since starting there. Santos, Bobby, Nate, and Rolain have all made a huge impact on him- and in more than just soccer. What wonderful role models! God has so richly blessed us through the folks at U-Turn -- from the front door, to the cafe', and beyond. Thank You!

Kathy Ware, Parent

 

Coach Jenna, I just want to thank you and the folks at U-Turn Sports Performance Academy for helping my son have an AMAZING summer! My son just turned 14 and had never played tennis in a formal setting. He just finished middle school and is going into high school. Before he started U-turn camp, my son was starting to have some disciplinary issues and simultaneously questioning his faith. He was slightly overweight and starting to have health issues. In three short weeks my son slimmed down to a healthy weight, was proud of his newfound strength and endurance, and learned to love the game of tennis. He has an increased sense of personal worth because his coaches believe in him and he made fast friends with his camp mates. He has become excited about running and strength training and plans to stay active during the school year. He also enjoyed the bible study even though he had been going through a period of spiritual doubt. I cannot thank U-Turn enough for giving me back my boy. He shook off the recalcitrant defiance and has embraced respectful responsibility with grace. What happens inside those walls is nothing short of miraculous. Keep up the great work!

Pleased Parent, Richmond, VA

 

We just wanted to share with everyone at U-turn Sports the incredible difference we have seen in Ronnie Jr's performance and skills.  We have not only witnessed a difference in his physical abilities but also his confidence and attitude.  He is driven and focused on going all the way to play football at the next level.  As parents we are proud of the accomplishments he has made and all that he has made and all that he has learned at U-turn sports under the direction and guidance of Coach Harris.  Coach Harris is a strong leader, who has helped to inspire and guide Ronnie in his preparation to play college level.  Coach Harris's dedication and guidance is very much appreciated.

Marygrace and Ronnie Ransome Sr. 

 

Darrell plays <football> for Short Pump Middle School. I don't know his position yet, but the experience of attending U-TURN Sports Performance Academy has made him a more knowledgable skill player and athlete. We can definitely see that in Darrell!

In an email from Darrell and Tamara Farmer

 

I'd like to reiterate how great your <football> program is. My son has lost quite a bit of weight, can run a lot further than he could before joining your camp, and is more receptive toward the sport. My son will attend your camp again next year.

In an email from Benjamin Clay Jr.