Business & Tech
Meet Steve O'Keefe, Owner of Tennis in Motion
Indoor tennis training facility owner Steve O'Keefe gives Patch a lesson on why tennis is important and how kids can learn quicker.
North Branford Patch: What is ?
Steve O’Keefe: It’s an indoor tennis facility designed for kids ages three to nine.
North Branford Patch: How did you get involved in this business?
O’Keefe: I’ve been involved in tennis as a professional teacher for years and this is sort of the way the tennis industry is moving.
North Branford Patch: Do you live in North Branford?
O’Keefe: No, I live in Branford
North Branford Patch: Why did you choose to run your business in North Branford?
O’Keefe: The people here are great and the location is perfect. I did my research, saw what was available and this place really fit what I was looking for. It has reception space, viewing space and, of course, a large area for the courts.
North Branford Patch: How do you tailor your services to meet the needs of children?
O’Keefe: Tennis is definitely a skill sport, it’s not right off the bat. It’s difficult and most kids don’t have coordination to be successful right away. The way we have it is better for them to develop their skills. We use smaller courts and smaller equipment to make the kids have success faster than any other setting.
North Branford Patch: Did you play tennis as a child?
O’Keefe: I played in high school, played in college, then started teaching during the summer.
North Branford Patch: What would you like your potential customers to know?
O’Keefe: This is such a great sport for kids to learn how to play when they’re young because all the skills and coordination for any other sport is being developing in our facility.
North Branford Patch: Any upcoming events we should know about?
O’Keefe: We have a new session beginning Jan. 9 and there’s also monthly pizza parties.
North Branford Patch: Where might people see you around town?
O’Keefe: I coach the Branford High boys' tennis team and I also run the Branford Rec tennis department.
North Branford Patch: Why do you think tennis is important?
O’Keefe: It really is a lifelong sport. You learn it as a child, you only need one other person to play and you’re always learning something new.
