The Soldiers Point tennis courts were bursting at the seams on Sunday with hundreds of people who stopped by to enjoy a fun day of tennis activities and watch a match between two skilled players.
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Soldiers Point Tennis Club president Paul McQuarrie said he was 'delighted' with the turn out to Sunday's free family tennis day, which is an annual summer event aimed at giving residents and holidaymakers a free and fun activity to do while also attracting new members to the club.
"Throughout the day many groups, families and others came along and had a hit on the courts with local coach James Bellette and got some tips," McQuarrie said.
"Others came along and signed up to join the club as members for 2021 and got a free racquet for joining.
"The fastest serve competition had people lining up to show their skills.
"The club signed many new members and James was happy to sign up new players for his coaching classes."
Participants of the day enjoyed free coaching with Bellette, games, skill-based activities, giveaways, a sausage sizzle and an exhibition match between Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer and former ATP player and Soldiers Point Tennis Club member David Lau.
"With more than 100 people watching from the sidelines, the community was treated to a great exhibition of tennis," McQuarrie said.
Lau defeated Palmer 6-3.
Anyone who missed out on attending the club's January 17 event will have the opportunity to get involved next month.
The club will host a second free, family fun tennis day on Sunday, February 14 - during the Australian Open.
It will run 10am to 4pm.
The events have been made possible through a Port Stephens Council and AGL grant secured by Soldiers Point Tennis Club in 2020.
Residents and holidaymakers looking to enjoy a hit of tennis can do so at Soldiers Point anytime.
Court bookings can be made through the club's website. Once paid for, the payee receives a pin code to open the gates at the court.
Equipment is available at the courts to use for free. The courts are open until 10pm.
In a bid to make the club even more family friendly, later this year the Soldiers Point club will launch an eight week social tennis program for mothers with young children.
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.
