Did you know that tennis is one of the safest sports to play during this pandemic? "I highly encourage people to find opportunities to play safely," says Overbeek.
1. What has been the response from your members since tennis has returned to the court?
Very good! Our numbers are up about 20% year over year. We reopened our indoor facilities on May 26th. We averaged 72 players per day from May 26 - June 15 in 2019. During that same time frame in 2020 we averaged 92 players.
2. Do you have unique programs designed for this season?
Because so many league seasons were canceled or shortened, we have developed a few new events for our club members only including Turbo Tiebreak Tournaments, Pro-Ams and Chickweed Tournaments. Also, our cardio tennis clinics which we offer daily and sometimes twice per day continue to be a huge hit!
3. What do you see as the greatest opportunity, and the greatest threat for the near future of local tennis?
For our members, the opportunities are that they are playing more 'organic' tennis. They are finding their own matches with other members because of the lack of league play. They are also playing outside more instead of always playing indoors. We actually have more activity at the club among our membership because there are so few other options. The threats would be that if we don't steward this time well and stay safe, we may see Covid-19 cases arise here at Richland. That would be the worst case scenario, so we are continually impressing upon our members that they remain vigilant and safe.
4. What advice do you have for those tennis players looking for a place to play?
Reach out to Tennis Nashville, the local USTA office and any of the other great clubs here in the Nashville area. Even if their membership is private, the local pros should be able to point you in the right direction. Tennis is one of the safest activities we can do in the midst of this pandemic.
