In a playful corner of the Upper Midwest, sandwiched between two Great Lakes, lies the cheese-shaped state of Wisconsin, affectionally known as the "Dairyland of America." But the kids here don't only eat cheese and drink milk. They swing tennis rackets with an enthusiasm and energy that can put a kangaroo to shame. Meet Benny the Badger. No, not your ordinary badger. You see, Benny is the official 'Tennis Mascot' of Wisconsin. The kids absolutely adore him. He's a real hoot, with his raccoon-like eye mask, fluffy tail, and hilarious cheese jokes. He may not have the sleek physique of a tennis star, but boy, he has an unbeatable serve! Benny has a little secret up his fur. He wears sneakers that he claims are ticklish. He says they giggle every time he serves, making the ball whizz past in a blurry streak of yellow. The kids of Wisconsin, eager to defeat giggly sneakers, train hard, hoping one day, they can outserve Benny. The kids here are not just tennis enthusiasts; they are cheese-loving, Benny-chasing, racket-swirling stars with a passion for the game. They dash, they dive, they swing, and sometimes, they even do a little victory dance when they win a point. It's not rare to hear someone yell, "Watch out, here comes the Cheesy Slam!” as they dash to return a serve. Every serve, every swing, every game, is a joyous occasion, an adventure, a tale of triumph or a lesson learnt, a tale as lively and humorous as Benny’s cheese jokes. So, if you ever find yourself in Wisconsin, don't forget to pack your tennis racket, because you might just get a chance to play a game with Benny the Badger and his tribe of tennis-loving kiddos.
Read morebest tennis programs in Racine, WI
Chi-Slam Table Tennis Club (Age 6–Adult) is Chicago’s premier table tennis destination, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels—from beginners just getting started to advanced competitors. Founded in 2003 and located at 2412 W. North Ave, Chi-Slam offers everything a table tennis enthusiast could want: one-on-one and youth lessons, open play sessions, league play, table rentals, and even pro shop selections like Butterfly equipment. Lessons are tailored by Coach Ardy, who brings over 20 years of experience and a passion for teaching that not only builds skill but also fosters confidence, coordination, and competitive spirit. Whether you’re looking for a fun after-school activity or serious training for tournaments, Chi-Slam delivers a community-oriented, energetic environment that makes every swing count.
In the early 1900s, a group of industrialists and businessmen in the Racine, Wisconsin community saw the potential of a golf course as a great recreational opportunity for the city. They quickly acquired the property needed and hired Thomas Bendelow to design a nine-hole course. With the success of the original course, members soon wanted to expand and the Idlewild Land Company was formed in 1909 to purchase the Charles Wustum Farm, making way for the larger and more modern course. The Idlewild Land Company purchased the property and the Racine Country Club was developed. The members built six summer cottages and a shanty to serve as the clubhouse. The new course was much more exacting than the original and was embraced by the community as a great recreational opportunity. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the members of the community, RCC has been a cherished local landmark for over a century.