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Racquet Club "Just for the Fun of It" has long been the mantra of the Racquet Club under Bob James' leadership. We're a large club that manages some of the busiest real estate in Ocean Hills: 11 beautiful sport courts that will soon be spiffed up with new coats of paint. But over the past six years, the courts have become more than just the daily destination for exercise-seekers. Bob tapped into the energy and talent of scores of members to create a Racquet Club experience that extends well beyond what happens between the painted lines. His recipe has been consistent and simple: Let's have fun! And there'll be plenty of that in store for 2026 as we introduce some new events and shake up some old ones. Do Dues Day, a not-to-be-missed Abravanel Hall event, is always a circus. Bob devised a clever way to focus on prospective new members by eliminating the need for renewals to visit our table. Returning members who paid in advance of Do Dues Day received a free custom club name badge. That incentive allowed Membership Chair Carol Ann Ferrol and volunteers including Karena Abrams, Allison Womack, Sid Saltzman, Donna Lorek and the club's BOD to focus on prospective new members. This is the year we expect to reach a milestone 600 members. Sat., Jan. 31 is our Meet the Racquet Club event from 3 to 5 pm at the Lanai. New members (or those still thinking about it) are welcome at the information fair where key volunteers and Board members will staff tables to answer questions about our core sports, court events and social activities – from cornhole to Play & Stays and our popular summer concert. Instructors for some of our classes will be present along with the volunteers behind our Sign- up Genius, Skedda, and the Help Desk. No RSVP required – all residents are welcome to drop by and learn more. One of our new pickleball events this year, the June 27 Kitchen Wars, will not be a cooking competition, but rather a friendly event for all "dinkers." We're also looking forward to an expanded format for our Men's & Women's Tournament May 29 - 30. Keep your eyes open and check your emails – there'll be some pop-up events over the course of the year. Don't miss out! What won't change is that there's always a place to get your questions about the courts answered: the Racquet Club Help Desk. Just shoot us an email. Dave and Ann will take care of you. Website: ohccracquetclub.org Help Desk: email ohrchelp@ gmail.com. Written by Ann Rike | OHCC LIVING | FEBRUARY 2026 | 41 Herb's Novice Class instructors include many of our best pickleballers Club Treasurer Donna (center) explains Sign-up Genius to Vickie (l) and Barb (r) Pavilion Patio hosts lively pickeball gatherings year-round Ask about our OHCC discount!