Based on last year’s successful endeavor to introduce children to the sport of tennis who otherwise couldn’t afford lessons, the Kodali family of Cary, is offering kids ranging in age from 5 to 13 a chance to learn and experience the game of tennis.

“My sons began playing tennis at an early age,” said Usha Kodali.

They’re accomplishments have been remarkable. My husband, Valli and I, are very proud of them.”

Giving back to community is a lesson the Kodali boys practice along with their daily hours on the court.

“I’m a fan of volunteering and helping others. I thought that incorporating what I love, playing tennis, into a camp setting would be a way of giving back,” said 17-year-old Aneesh, who will be teaching at Cary Tennis Park beginning Aug. 3. Helping out will be his 11-year-old brother, Anudeep, a nationally ranked tennis player (in his division) having earned 71 trophies and three sportsmanship awards.

The lessons are free; the advantages are many.

The Kodali Family Private Foundation will hire several professional coaches who will share teaching duties for registrants from Cary, Holly Springs, Apex, Fuquay-Varina and Raleigh. The children will receive a tennis racquet, a can of tennis balls and a T-shirt that reads “Kids for Kids Tennis Camp.”

Those are the tangibles. The intangibles are learning teamwork and self motivation, adhering to the commitment of attending all sessions along with sharpening skills related to discipline and dedication to practice, all promote self confidence.

“The more active children are today, the more beneficial it is in the prevention of obesity, developing endurance and their general health,” said Usha.

“Tennis is a bit different than other sports because once you’ve mastered the game, using your backhand and forehand, the footwork and scoring, all you need is a court and an opponent. It is a sport you can always play at any of your town’s free public courts, parks and town clinics,” said Valli.

If the response is as overwhelming this year as it was last year, the Kodalis plan to include as many kids as possible. A new program, QuickStart Tennis, geared for youngsters ages 5 to 7 and designed to develop hand-eye coordination, will be implemented at the sessions. You can read about QuickStart Tennis on usta.com.

The Kodalis are pleased that Aneesh’s idea will again be made possible with significant help from the Western Wake Tennis Association and Cary Tennis Park. They are delighted to be able to support the event and hope to do it in 2010.

Eligibility criteria: willing kids who have never had exposure to tennis.

Fliers have been posted at libraries, the YMCA and local tennis courts.

Register for the weekday, evening or weekend sessions at kidsforkidstennis.com.