Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1477156
| SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | SEPTEMBER 2022 | | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 61 61 A new Sun Lakes resident came early one morning to the tennis courts by the South Clubhouse. Looking for a place to fit in and play, he happened upon a group of men gathered to practice for USTA competition. He wished to learn about opportunities for practice and play offered by our club. I, the author of this article, was ready to assist him with what I believed to be helpful information. I told this new resident about opportunities for drop-in play that include both men and women of all skill levels. The club offers drop-in play on the first Saturday of each month. We begin at 8 am with a skills session led by our very own tennis pro, Phil Hazelton, and assisted by others including Pat Carter, Daryl Barton, and Bill Hendra. At 8:30 am we engage in round-robin, friendly competition based on randomly selected teams. New tennis balls, ice-cold water, and snacks are provided. Another drop-in opportunity is the Tuesday and Thursday (gender neutral) drop-in play organized by Bill Hendra. Everything begins at 8 am. Again, all skill levels are welcome. New and lightly used tennis balls are provided. Participants are asked to contribute the nominal amount of one dollar per week. Players must be SLCC residents. We also host Pizza and Play parties over the summer season. Our last such event was held on July 20 at 5 pm with mixed doubles followed by pizza, salad, and dessert. Everyone pays $5 for the meal on the patio, and as always, BYOB. This article is an invitation to those who are seeking to start or resume playing tennis. We recommend that you start with our drop-in play. Making friends is inevitable. Bill Hendra had a party at his home and invited some new drop-in players (photo inset). Finally, a Tennis Tip from Phil Hazelton: When in doubt "Call it out." Just kidding. If you run into an issue where an opposing player may be calling unfair calls, do the following: The first time, ask, "Are you sure?" Most times this makes the opposing player notice his/her calls. The second time, approach the net in a civil way. Express your concern on their calls. Discuss your concerns. The third time, if in tourney, stop play and call for the tourney director and determine if lines people are necessary. If bad line calls continue, stop play and express your thoughts, and wish them well. At this stage of your life, remember to always keep the fun in your game and your eye on the ball. ~ David Nethercott Tennis