CIW tennis clinics foster health, safety

August 2, 2024

California Institution for Women recreation staff partnered with US Tennis Association of Southern California to provide two 90-minute tennis clinics to 42 incarcerated individuals.

Members of the United States Tennis Association of Southern California (USTA SoCal) recently held tennis clinics at the California Institution for Women (CIW).

CIW’s recreation staff partnered with USTA SoCal to provide two 90-minute tennis clinics to 42 incarcerated individuals.

Those involved included:

Shaun Ward, CIW Supervisor of Academic Instruction
Aaron Moore and Monique Nolan, CIW coaches
Rachel Scalera, marketing coordinator for USTA SoCal
Camille Hanson and Sammie Xiao, Community Coordinators for USTA SoCal.

The clinics at CIW offered basic tennis instruction suitable for all skill levels. Participants enjoyed smiles, laughter, and plenty of high fives as they learned the fundamentals of the game. After mastering the basics, they played the game to help develop their skills.

“Running the clinic at CIW was a truly rewarding experience for us. Also, the participants’ enthusiasm reassured us tennis significantly enhances their well-being,” said Scalera. “I hope the participants develop a passion for tennis and share it with their families upon release. It has been wonderful collaborating with the CDCR staff throughout this process.”

Collaboration with CDCR coaches statewide

Heidi Wippel, headquarters physical education and recreation coach, is collaborating with coaches statewide to support more programs to foster a healthier and safer environment for staff and incarcerated individuals.

“Rachel Scalera at USTA SoCal has been a committed community partner to the recreation programs at CDCR,” said Wippel. “Her professionalism and dedication are valued by the incarcerated population as well as the staff.”

The CDCR Division of Rehabilitative Programs (DRP) aims to improve the mental and physical well-being of incarcerated individuals through sports. This program contributes to creating a healthier and safer environment within the prison system.

“One participant expressed her excitement about playing tennis with her daughter when she transitions back to her community soon,” said Wippel.

Story by Todd Javernick, Information Officer
Office of Public and Employee Communications