The NETS (Nadal Educational Tennis School) project, promoted by the FundaciĆ³n Rafa Nadal in collaboration with the FundaciĆ³n Vicente Ferrer and its local partner Rural Development Trust (RDT), has been running for more than 15 years in Anantapur, India. This programme is part of the ongoing commitment of these organisations to improve opportunities for children in rural communities through sport and education.
The Summer Camp has become a key experience in the annual calendar of the project during school holidays, offering participants a safe, structured and enriching space in which to continue learning, growing and developing.
A year marked by participation and learning
This yearās Summer Camp took place from 11 May to 3 June, lasting a total of 21 days. The programme involved 153 boys and girls, supported by 7 volunteers, 4 coaches and 2 support staff members, who ensured the smooth running of all activities.
The main aim of the camp was to promote the holistic development of children through a balanced combination of sport, education and values-based learning, using tennis as an educational and social tool.
Each day included tennis training sessions adapted to the age and level of the participants. These sessions were not only focused on technical improvement, but also on developing essential skills such as discipline, consistency, concentration and teamwork.
Through sport, the children experienced the importance of effort, self-improvement and cooperationāvalues that are central to the NETS educational approach.
Education beyond the court
The educational component of the Summer Camp included English and computer classes designed to strengthen basic skills that are key for the participantsā academic and professional futures.
English lessons focused on improving oral and written communication, while computer sessions introduced basic digital literacy concepts, helping children become familiar with essential technological tools in todayās world.
Life skills and values
The programme also included specific life skills sessions focused on personal and social development. These activities worked on self-confidence, responsibility, leadership and the importance of maintaining positive behaviour both inside and outside the classroom and the tennis court.
In addition, awareness sessions on Mana Bhoomi were held, an initiative aimed at fostering respect for and care of the natural environment and the community, promoting environmental awareness from an early age.
The Summer Camp provided a positive living environment where children could share experiences, build new friendships and learn to live together in a context of respect and cooperation.
During the last three days of the camp, various competitions and recreational activities were organised, creating an atmosphere of excitement and participation. These activities encouraged team spirit and allowed children to demonstrate what they had learned throughout the programme.
Prizes were awarded to winners and finalists in recognition of their effort, attitude and performance throughout the camp.
The Summer Camp concluded with a special celebration of Rafa Nadalās birthday, including gymkhana-style activities organised on the five courts over 60 minutes. This was followed by an awards ceremony and the presentation of diplomas to all participants, recognising their involvement and commitment over the three weeks of the programme.