Newcastle Tennis Club open day proves to be a hit

Newcastle Tennis Club open day proves to be a hit

9 July 2014

OVER 100 hundred people attended the hugely successful open day at Newcastle Tennis Club on Saturday.

With the weather defying the forecasts and the sun beating down on the Bryansford Road courts, large numbers arrived to give tennis a try and sample some free coaching made available on the day by professionals Sam Clegg and Jane McIlwrath.

While both juniors and seniors hit balls like aspiring Wimbledon champions, the spectators lined up court side to watch the action and enjoy refreshments, including seasonal strawberries and cream.

Coaches helped young beginners master the basics of racquet grip and striking the ball, while adults were able to learn more about doubles tactics and forehand spin.

Some 40 new players of all ages took out club membership on the day, taking advantage of a special promotional rate available on open day and available until this Saturday by contacting the club.

Tennis club chairperson Jim Drayne said: “This might well have been Newcastle’s most successful open day ever. We are delighted that so many people came along and have decided to join the club, this bodes well for the future of tennis in the area.

“We want to thank everyone who joined us for the event, as well as all of the club volunteers who helped to make the day such a success. Newcastle is fortunate to have such a fantastic tennis facility. The club is keen that as many people as possible have the chance to enjoy the courts and the great sport of tennis.

“We are indebted to Down District Council for their financial support for the day and for the development of tennis more generally in the area. And thanks too to Tesco for the strawberries and cream, just perfect for Wimbledon fortnight,” he added.

“If anyone missed the open day, it’s still not too late to join, just contact me or any other club member and we will get you signed up quicker than a Djokovic serve.”

During the summer there are special Wednesday evening coaching sessions during selected weeks, for both juniors and seniors, run by coach Sam Clegg.

Dates are July 9, July 23, July 30 and August 20; juniors 6-7.30pm and 7.30-9pm, seniors 9-10pm.

Meanwhile, four summer scheme tennis weeks will be available for junior players during July and August, delivered by coach Hazel Carder: weeks 21-25 July, 28 July-1 August, 11-16 August, 18-22 August (start 9am-11am). Cost £20 per person.

Both senior and junior singles and doubles internal leagues are now up and running for club members, with the opportunity for players to set up challenge matches, meet other club members and battle their way to the top of the leagues.

Mixed doubles informal club play continues every Monday evening from 7pm for adult members. See club website (newcastletennisclub.com or facebook.com/NewcastleTennisClub) for more details of membership and how to join.