Tennis makes a long awaited return
Brighton Tennis Club (BTC) on the Bluff reopened at the end of May for controlled practice and social games for club members only.
TENNIS players far and wide have reason to rejoice, following the official announcements by Tennis South Africa (TSA) on the return of the sport.
TSA announced on Thursday, 6 August the plans for the resumption of junior tennis tournaments with the health and safety of all involved, as the primary focus. Tournaments are currently set to resume in the week commencing 22 August 2020. In a statement, TSA acknowledged that the return to competitive tennis needs to be slow with reduced numbers and shortened formats. The National Safety Council (NSA) has therefore decided that no official seniors ranking tournaments will take place before 24 September 2020. A calendar with dates of all upcoming games and events is available on tennissa.co.za.
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Brighton Tennis Club (BTC) on the Bluff reopened at the end of May for controlled practice and social games for club members only.
Sharing on the unforeseen halt of the sport, BTC manager, Natalie Grandin said, “The entire lockdown period has been quite challenging. We weren’t able to play for two months so that was really tough but since we’ve been back, we have had a few children taking part in weekly lessons.”
She shared that the children are not allowed to touch the balls and that only coaches are to pick up and sanitise balls, before and after children are on the court. “We take the children’s temperatures and we send all necessary details to TSA. Since reopening we have only allowed back club members to play at the club and we do all the required health and safety checks as well. Unfortunately we aren’t open for members of the public but we’re really glad to be back. It also affords the children an opportunity to be active and outdoors,” said Natalie.
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The club has not suffered too much financial strain over the lockdown as members have paid their fees. “It has been a little tough though as we haven’t had more people coming to play socially so we have felt a bit of a pinch. Management of the club has been good as we have a dedicated grounds keeper who has been keeping a good eye on the place.”
BTC also holds Saturday social tennis for members for 1pm to 5pm and has had full courts since its reopen.
Natalie also runs most of the tennis tournaments in KZN for juniors. “Although most games were cancelled, we’re looking forward to the next one which will be taking place over 21, 22 and 23 August at Westridge Park Stadium,” said an excited Natalie.
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