Tennis 'a sport that can be played with social distancing in mind'

Tennis ‘a sport that can be played with social distancing in mind’

May 28, 2020

With tennis courts across the country set to all soon be open, Tennis Australia Chief Executive, Craig Tiley has today looked forward to grassroots participation in the game following weeks of lockdown, stating “we’re now seeing a lot of demand for tennis, with kids, families and friends hitting the court for fun and fitness in a safe environment.”

With extensive guidelines on safe play, with increased hygiene practices and social distancing having been developed to help players of all ages and levels get on court and enjoy the fun and wellbeing benefits that the game provides, Speaking today, Tiley advised “tennis is already a sport that can be played with social distancing in mind.”

Tennis Australia’s guidelines have been designed to help each club and operator assess their local environment and ensure social distancing and increased hygiene measures are in place. This includes a 1.5 metre distance between players at all times, open court gates, and of course, racquet taps instead of handshakes.

Tennis Australia’s Chief Tennis Officer Matt Dwyer added “we’ve worked closely with our clubs and coaches across Australia on how to get everyone back on court in the safest possible way, and now the court is calling.

“Over the past couple of weeks, as restrictions have gradually eased, we’ve seen a surge of interest in tennis. As a non-contact sport, and built-in social distancing, players of all ages are enjoying getting outside, having a hit, and returning to coaching and social play.

“As well as being great physical exercise tennis is a tremendous sport for mental health and wellbeing. After weeks of being in lockdown, booking a court for a hit with family and/or friends - of course using our new guidelines - is an ideal way to get an exercise routine back on track.”

For the latest tennis information, guidelines and resources go to www.tennis.com.au/play/covid-19

Images: Craig Tiley (top) and Tennis Australia is recommending racquet taps instead of handshakes (below).

12th March 2020 - Moreland sporting facilities receive funding for public safety infrastructure

13th May 2020 - Community aquatic, recreation and sport industry alliance seeks 12-month stimulus package from Federal and state governments

12th May 2020 - Industry alliance provides guidance on community aquatic, recreation and sport operations in eased Coronavirus environment

24th May 2020 - Sport Australia launches toolkit to guide safe return of community sport

7th May 2020 - Western Australian Government releases factsheet on how easing of Coronavirus restrictions will impact community sport and recreation

25th April 2020 - Greater Shepparton City completes upgrade of tennis courts

21st March 2020 - Resurfacing works completed for Shoalhaven Tennis Courts

28th January 2020 - Australian tennis great Margaret Court honoured at Australian Open

22nd January 2020 - Tennis program set to be introduced into five Queensland state schools

30th December 2019 - Tennis legend Ken Rosewall unveils Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre upgrades

24th December 2019 - Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope launches blind and low vision tennis coaching program

4th February 2020 - Australian Open 2020 welcomes largest ever tournament crowds

6th December 2019 - Craig Tiley takes on COMPPS Chair role

Asking a small favour
We hope that you value the news that we publish so while you're here can we ask for your support?

The news we publish at www.ausleisure.com.au is independent, credible (we hope) and free for you to access, with no pay walls and no annoying pop-up ads.

However, as an independent publisher, can we ask for you to support us by subscribing to the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine - if you don't already do so.

Published bi-monthly since 1997, the printed Australasian Leisure Management differs from this website in that it publishes longer, in-depth and analytical features covering aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism and venues management.

Subscriptions cost just $90 a year.

Click here to subscribe.