Pickleball, a cross between field and table tennis, is gaining momentum because, says club president Rod Stubbs, "it is easy to pick up, it is fast and can be played by males and females of any age. And it is great fun".

"We plan to introduce pickleball at our social tennis nights set to re-start on Friday, October 16, from 6.30pm to 9pm. These nights will include tennis coaching from Blake Dennison, with the first night being free. All equipment is provided," Stubbs added.

Following a disrupted season due to COVID-19, Nelson Bay tennis has also made the decision to give back to the community by providing free membership [normally $85 for adults and $20 for juniors] for the remainder of the 2020 calendar year to anyone who signs up to become a member before October 10.

"Included in the membership for each new member is one free 30-minute private lesson and one free group trial lesson (for adult or junior). Also, there will be free court hire for the month of September for any new members," Stubbs said.

The tennis club has also been given the green light to open up its eight courts during the school holidays. Fees have been set at $35 per day or $90 for three days (Tuesday-Thursday), starting from September 29 and ending on October 8.

"The junior competition will start up in school Term 4 on Friday, October 16, from 4-6pm and again the first night will be free. Beginners are welcome."

The club's leading tennis provider located behind the Nelson Bay Bowling Club has also recently had new, state-of-the-art LED lights installed across all eight courts worth $100,000, with the cost being shared between the club and Port Stephens Council.

"The lights have made a huge difference for all players, particularly those who may have struggled with the light at night time. The vision is now clear as day," Stubbs said.

As a Tennis Australia accredited Hot Shots coach, Blake Dennison said that he was also excited to be be bringing the hot shot (beginners) program to Nelson Bay this year in three stages: starting with the 4-7 year-olds; then the 8-10 year-olds; and finally 9-16 year-olds.

"Despite some disruptions, we have slowly returned close to where we were pre-COVID and are looking forward to giving back to the community, which has been so patient in these difficult times," he said.

To find out more about club memberships or to book courts, contact Dennison on 0403 634 667.