This post is part of a series that tell the stories of how tennis has influenced people’s lives in the Mid-Atlantic Section. Meet Anastasia Cope from Reston, Va. To share your story or send to someone you know, click here.

After having my daughter, I left active military service and moved to Northern Virginia. Like most moms, I searched for an activity for my daughter to be involved in – and boy did we try everything –Tae Kwon Do, Ballet, horseback riding, figure skating and of course soccer. NOTHING would stick!

Then about two years ago I enrolled her in a Fairfax County Parks and Recreation weeklong tennis day camp, and she fell in love. She wanted to play every day… so that is what we did! I had dabbled in tennis a bit growing up, but never got fully involved. So I decided to find tennis lessons for ‘old people’ and took them so that she would have someone to hit with.

Fast forward 3 years, and she has been playing #1 Singles for her Catholic school team. She also played USTA Junior Team Tennis and just got back from a week of tennis camp at held at the United States Naval Academy.

Finding tennis has brought my daughter and me closer. It has given her a passion and encouraged me to be more fit. Additionally, tennis has given us an opportunity to spend time together. Whether we hit balls back and forth, watch tournaments on the Tennis Channel or attend matches in person ( e.g. Washington Kastles, or Citi Open), the best part is that we do it together.

Tennis has truly brought us closer, and allowed my daughter to blossom. It really is a family activity, and the family that plays together, stays together!

To find information about the Junior Team Tennis league in your area, click here.