The courts on the corner of Messines Street and Government Road once had a tennis pro and plenty of eager players.

“Shoal Bay Tennis Club was going for a long time but increasingly the players have been getting older and it was at risk of closing down,” Shoal Bay resident Helen Love said.

“One of the ladies who has just given it away is in her 80s now and she had been involved for 35 years. Our club was a typical example of the membership becoming too old to play.”

A dozen residents have taken up their rackets twice a week for a social game on the synthetic courts.

“It’s good to be active,” Ms Love said.

“If I didn’t have this I would be working all the time, I wouldn’t stop.

“The fitness is great but it’s the social aspect that is important too, we’re not great players but we’re getting there.”

The group has taken on the maintenance of the courts which can be booked through the Shoal Bay newsagency.

The players recently celebrated Christmas in July with some good food and a little work.

The club plays Saturday afternoons and has a twilight session from 4pm of a Monday. The courts are also available to students and for hire.

“It would be great to get the younger ones active and working on those skills,” Ms Love said.

“We definitely want to get a pro back here too.”

The use of courts has the potential to preserve them for years to come.

“We’re lucky to still have these tennis courts and the club is to thank for keeping them in good shape,” Ms Love said.

“You can’t get them back once apartment blocks are built on them.

“It would be great to get another 12 or so members.”

People who want a game or wish to get involved can call Helen Love on 0415 646 060.