North Shore Towers Courier n April 2013 3 GAME, SET, MATCH Tennis courts set to open BY MAGGIE HAYES Spring is upon us, and this month, country club members can not only dust off their golf clubs, but their tennis rackets too. Tennis season is set to begin April 19, and the staff is ready for players to get back on the court. “It’s important to enjoy the company of friends and to exercise,” said Rick Bates, tennis professional. “People can be such creatures of habit, we want them to get out and be active.” This summer will play out just as others have, with everyday games, holiday events and visits from professionals. Open seven days a week, the courts are ready for singles and doubles players to come out and show their stuff. Before Memorial Day, the five courts will be open from 8 a.m. until noon, then extending to 3 p.m. after Memorial Day when the summer season is in full swing. When members come down, Bates and his staff can arrange teams, giving players opportunities to pair up with different people, and play against various opponents. “We want to give people the chance to mix it up,” said Bates. “We’re getting people to become more sociable, while improving their game.” Aside from everyday play, the tennis facilities have various events lined up to make for an exciting, active summer. There will be tournaments held both Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, July 4th, and men’s and ladies doubles championships, as well as a Pro Am event in which members will get the chance to play with professional tennis players. Additionally, once again, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) boys and girls tournament will be held in June and July, and different men’s leagues around the community will use the courts some afternoons. “It is excellent tennis, and it gives people an opportunity to see potential future stars. It’s also very entertaining,” said Bates. “It’s a lot of fun for people to come and watch, and it never interferes with anybody’s playing time, so it doesn’t take away from anything that members would normally be able to do.” New this year will be scheduled trips to the Culinary Institute of America in June, as well as the World Trade Center Memorial. These outings will give members a break from the court, and the opportunity to enjoy a nice summer day on a new site. “Really, we’re just looking forward to another great summer after a long, cold winter,” said Bates. “We want people to challenge themselves, but our most important wish for all players is to enjoy the game and just be happy.”
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