About Us
50 years of developing players, building character, and creating a lifelong love of the game in Traverse City.
Safe, Positive, and Most of All — Fun!
Our goal is to provide all campers with a tennis experience that not only maximizes their performance but helps build a foundation on which children continue to develop their interest in this lifelong sport.
To accomplish this, we provide a high-energy learning environment that is safe, positive, and most of all — fun!
Grand Traverse Tennis Camps has been the breeding ground that has produced some of the best players in the state of Michigan. We take great pride in our instructors, our facility, and the experience we deliver every summer.
Located on Eastern Avenue, the Tennis Center at Traverse City Central High School is one of only a handful of facilities like it in the state — complete with concession stand, team room, bathrooms, and plenty of shade. Over $500,000 was raised through grants and private donations to build this world-class facility.
NOT sponsored by TCAPSAwesome Instructors
We take great care in choosing our tennis coaches and instructors. Our team of dedicated teachers, former players, and coaches are passionate about tennis and creating a positive, encouraging camp experience.
Larry Nykerk, USPTR
Founder & Director
Larry taught high school tennis in Traverse City for 50 years and is 1st in the State with 1,050 career victories. Named Michigan Tennis Coach of the Year three times and inducted into the Michigan High School Tennis Coaches Hall of Fame in 1999. Also inducted into the Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 2018.
Larry is a hands-on Director — he teaches the adult class and is present at camp all summer long. His dedication to the sport and to young players has made GTTC a Northern Michigan institution for half a century.
Cliff Girard
"Mr. G" — 36th Year with GTTC
Former East Middle School Phys Ed Teacher and tennis coach, former college player, basketball coach, and St. Francis Golf coach. Received the Distinguished Service Award from MHSteCA in 1999. Beloved by everyone — campers and parents always know Mr. G!
Ivy Walker
Jr. Excellence & HS Team Camp Lead
Former TC Central and K-College player. Ivy leads both the Junior Excellence and High School Team Camp programs, focusing on competitive skill development, match-play preparation, and tactical fundamentals needed for high school and tournament tennis.
Also on Staff — Summer 2026
World-Class Facilities
TC Central Tennis Center
Multiple courts on Eastern Avenue in Traverse City — a premier facility built through over $500,000 in grants and private donations.
Concession Stand
On-site concessions to keep campers fueled and happy throughout the session.
Team Room
Dedicated team room for instruction, meetings, and shelter when needed.
Shade & Restrooms
Plenty of shade for parents watching and proper restroom facilities on site.