VALUES

Our sports camps are primarily concerned that each student be treated as a person of integrity and worth, and that values that he develops on the sports field be carried into his daily life. Sportsmanship, gamesmanship, tolerance for hard work, and enthusiasm for playing the game can be instilled in all students regardless of physical talents. Our motto is ... enter Our Camps to become a better athlete and an even finer lady and gentleman!

TEAM

Our staff is selected by evaluating the abilities of individuals who can play their sport at competitive levels. But they must be -- first and foremost -- individuals who care about, and relate to, other people. They are, secondly, highly qualified, technical teachers of their specific sport. Our staff is not only hand selected by the directors, but they also go through a detailed national criminal and sexual offender background check. All employees must fill out detailed applicatilons, be interviewed by directors, and pass all criminal background checks prior to being hired.

	Mehdi Belhassan:  Mehdi has owned the camps since 1995, and prior to this was assistant director to the camp, starting in 1989.  As a former tennis professional, and a father himself, he knows the values and dedication it takes to give “the best sports instruction.”  Mehdi resides on campus throughout all camp sessions, and quickly gains the respect of all the campers.  We like to call Mehdi the “summer dad,” as he makes sure campers are “staying in line” while having fun and improving their sport of choice
	Maria Belhassan:  Maria has been involved in the camps since 2004, and is the person you will most likely speak with year round, while getting ready for the summer.  Maria is the background force, organizing summer events, registration packets, and the many other aspects to putting together a great summer production!  Maria is available via email, and during the year the 1-800 number rings to her cell phone.  Our policy is that every parent should be 100% comfortable by the time they drop off their child to our camp.  Parents, campers… ask as many questions as you need!
	Driss Belhassan:  The "smallest" member of the team...  Mehdi's son and Maria's stepson has been coming to camp since he was a baby.  Initially spending the camp season as a cute little toddler on the sidelines, he now likes to get involved with the campers and pretend he is the "little boss!"
	Brian DiMarino:  The newest addition to our team, Brian helps with administrative work throughout the year. Brian was an athlete for many years before attending college at the University at Albany. While at camp, Brian continues with the administrative work along with many other responsibilities.

Nicholas Parrinello:  Nick has been involved in our camps for many years as well, however in a different way.  Nick started out at Offense Defense Tennis Camp as a CAMPER!  After graduating from Pepperdine University in 2005, Nick decided to continue his involvement with the camp… this time as a staff member.  Nick helps out with the administrative work during the year, and during the summer he helps coach and helps with many other responsibilities.  Nick played for the Pepperdine Tennis Team for two years, and still plays with Mehdi during the year. (By the way… Pepperdine won the NCAA division 1 tennis championships last year!)