A new program for kids in Erin is called Winners Tennis, but winning is not the object of these games. It is a drop-in event every Friday, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., at the Erin Tennis Club.
"It's a parent-run program of non-competitive tennis," said organizer Andrea Cuthbert. "This isn't about winning, it's about developing skills and having fun."
Beginners aged 6-9 will participate in tennis "games" in a group format, while novices and experienced players aged 9-14 will have more challenging activities.
Winners Tennis will run from May 18 to June 29. It is free with a tennis membership, which costs $170 per family, or $105 for adults and $50 for juniors under age 18.
The club is hosting a Try Tennis Day this Saturday, April 14, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Drop in to play, ask questions or register for the upcoming season. The courts are owned by the Town of Erin and are located behind Centre 2000 on Boland Drive.
(Shelley Austin warms up for the new season at the Erin courts.)
Club Pro Doug Ing will again offer four free lessons for every member, plus a free Doubles Strategy Clinic for adults. The kids' lessons will now have a separate time slot for those 7 and younger.
Various other lessons, clinics and programs are available at an extra cost. There is a new cardio-training option for adults. For kids 7-16 there is a new competitive Sunday afternoon program called Team Tennis, in which teams of six will play against other teams, with each player matched against his or her own skill level. Ing can be contacted at 519-895-6822 or at doug@mbscoach.com.
The five courts are open to members at no charge until 11 p.m. daily, although organized activities have top priority. Also free with membership are weekly house league play, men's tennis on Sunday mornings, ladies' tennis on Saturday mornings, inter-club teams, a Freedom 55 traveling team, a singles ladder competition and a series of five tournaments.
The club has several Friday Fun Nights – a combination of tennis and partying. The first is on June 15, with members invited to dress up in Caribbean style.
More information and a registration form are available at www.erintennis.com, and questions can be directed by email to erintennisclub@gmail.com
