Dear Editor,
Re: Naydene Lewis’ letter regarding the Okotoks skate park and tennis courts.
Over the years, extensive damaged was caused by individuals trying non-related activities such as a new racquet sport powered by skateboards or doing games with hockey sticks and pucks on the town-maintained tennis courts located near Good Shepherd School. Vandalism and littering in and around the facilities were rampant as well.
Consequently, the Town sought solutions that would protect taxpayers' money in the long term. After public consultation, it was deemed best to create a tennis club that would maintain, protect and regularly use the courts.
Since 2000, a team of enthusiastic volunteers has provided unlimited keyed court access to novice and experienced tennis players. Seasonal family memberships are $85 and $55 for singles. Funds are used for basic operational expenses.
Local schools have free access to courts and equipment to incorporate tennis into their phys ed programs. Singles and doubles leagues and tournaments are scheduled. Summer camps and individual and group lessons are organized by a qualified tennis professional.
Court surface life has doubled since the tennis club carefully started to maintain the facility thereby allowing taxpayer funds to be used elsewhere. Hundreds of residents have benefited tremendously from a safe outdoor facility where players of all ages and levels can enjoy a game that is physically and mentally fun, and is a much-needed diversion from mind-numbing computer activities. Real socializing happens on a tennis court.
Let’s be grateful to the Town for its provision of recreational facilities and focus to enjoy the positives.
Also, club members have been seen wielding snow shovels, brooms and squeegees to remove snow, hail, or rainwater off the courts.
Tennis anyone?
Adele Gregory, president
Okotoks Tennis Club
