Soldiers Point Tennis Club will use two grants it received in 2020 to hold its popular family fun day twice this summer.
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The free events, returning January 17 and February 14, is a chance for residents and holidaymakers to try tennis in a fun and relaxed environment and, should they wish to continue playing the sport, join the social Soldiers Point club.
"Our main purpose with theses events it to introduce families to tennis," Soldiers Point Tennis Club president Paul McQuarrie said.
"Tennis is great for fitness, and caters for all people of all ages and skill level. It's a great family sport. Our club is very family-friendly. We have many families that book our courts to use throughout the year."
The club, which has doubled in size in the past five years, received a Port Stephens Council grant and one from energy company AGL to host the two family tennis days.
Both will be held at the courts in Soldiers Point Road from 10am to 4pm.
McQuarrie said attendees could have a hit with their family, friends or others at the courts or use the practice wall. Equipment will be free to use on the open days.
The club's tennis coach, James Bellette, will be on hand to provide mini lessons and pointers to attendees.
A new addition to the January event will be an exhibition match between two former professionals - new Soldiers Point Tennis Club member David Lau and Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer.
The 30 minute exhibition match between the pair, beginning at 11.30am, is expected to draw a crowd.
"David is a newcomer to the club but he is a high standard player," McQuarrie said. "He and Ryan should be evenly matched. It will be a good opportunity to watch high caliber players in action."
After falling in love with Port Stephens during visits from Sydney and due to being able to work remotely, Lau and his family moved to the Bay this year.
Lau, who has played tennis since he was 4 years old, said he quickly found a new tennis community in Soldiers Point.
"It's an awesome community," the 31 year old said. "It's really friendly and inviting, and really enjoyable to play here."
Speaking about the exhibition match with the Mayor, Lau said he was looking forward to it.
In a bid to make the club even more family friendly, in 2021 the club will launch an eight week program for mothers with young children using a third grant it received this year.
The program is aimed at getting mothers and children out and about, involved with an easy and fun sport and gave them an opportunity to meet other young families in the area.
For more information or to book a court for a social game go to the Soldiers Point Tennis Club website.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
