New winter tennis program aims to grow adult participation

A NEW winter tennis program in Ballina aims to get more adults on court with a mix of social games, fitness sessions and clinics.

Ballina Tennis Club is hoping to recruit more adult players to join its mid-week competition alongside its growing junior base.

The winter program includes an adult clinic, a social competition and a cardio tennis session, all held under lights at the renovated Ballina Tennis Club.

Club coach Stephen Gort, who has more than a decade of experience in Australian Money Tournaments, will oversee the program. He coaches juniors across the region, with strong talent at both Ballina and Mullumbimby.

“The social competition is perfect for meeting new players, it’s friendly and competitive,” club secretary Niall Ridge said.

“The adult clinic focuses on technique development through drills and practice point play to build player confidence.

“We also have the cardio session which is a high-energy fitness program combining tennis drills with cardiovascular exercise.”

The social competition is open to all skill levels and will be held on Tuesday nights from 6.30pm.

The adult clinic runs on Wednesday nights from 6pm to 7pm. Players can pay casually rather than committing to a full term.

The cardio tennis session runs at 6.30pm on Thursdays.

All sessions include balls, court lighting and access to the courts. The clubhouse has recently been renovated and includes change rooms for players.

Improved LED lighting now allows matches to run until 10pm.

To find out more, contact coach Stephen Gort on 0412 731 814.