Let the Changing Scenery of Fall Include a Trip to the Tennis Court

For some it’s a time for back-to-school, apple cider, and cooler temperatures. Others identify with its earth-tone colors, pumpkin pies, and scary costumes. But I’m sure that many know this time of year by the sports we see emblazoned across our televisions (professional), played out at regional high schools or colleges (amateur), or seen in our parks through township recreation departments (kids). While soccer and football may be the major distractions, perhaps we should not forget the sport that has no off season—tennis.

Currently the best players in the world are gathered in New York for the last Grand Slam tournament of the season. The U.S. Open is to the tennis calendar what other sports may view as their final championships of the year. But although this is the last of the major tournaments in 2012 for pros to dream about winning, additional tournaments continue leading all the way to the World Tour Finals played in November. So if it is good enough for the pros, then why not us?

Enter the fall sessions for youth tennis offered by Gotta Play Tennis and the Gloucester Township Recreation Department. Once again, kids ages 5-7 and 8-10 can participate in the fun and learning provided at Gloucester Township Community Park on Saturdays beginning on Sept. 22. With our QuickStart tennis format, kids learn skills faster, and they develop a greater desire to enjoy the thrill of tennis at the free public facilities available to them, their parents, relatives and siblings. Not only is tennis the lifetime sport, but it is also the family sport. I can’t think of one other athletic offering for our youth that invites parents to learn and experience a sport right along with their kids. The inevitable result is smiles for everyone during this six-week session ending on Oct. 27. Two rain dates—Nov. 3 and 10—are provided to accommodate inclement weather.

All equipment is provided, and parents are more than welcome to participate and share in the success of their children. More information about QuickStart tennis is available at www.gottaplaytennis.net. Contact Gloucester Township Recreation for more details about registration.