Calendar keeps on ticking by ….
…yes, it is March already and the start of autumn. As I write we are back in lockdown mode Level 3 once more, but hopefully for only one week ( fingers crossed). Hard to believe that it is nearly a year ago (March 19 2020) that we first locked our courts and clubhouse for an extended period. Without doubt, a year like no other!
Returning to life
Recent brief Auckland lockdowns aside, the club has returned to a near normal life. Social activity resumed with a great sell out Quiz Night in November, and Coach Kenny’s new year birthday party. Great to see Band on the Rum back in action.
A free BBQ on the first Sunday of each month has helped draw people back to Senior Social Tennis, whilst the club champs men’s and ladies doubles tournament attracted 14 pairings. Well done to all who took part on a scorchingly hot day, and to the winners James Corfield & Michal Pozaroszczyk and Adrienne Croad & Debbie Martin.
Initiatives make variable progress
Three areas in particular have recently benefited from tremendous input from members giving up their precious time to help out the club:
– firstly, our appeal last August / September to encourage members to make a submission to the Local Council regarding ‘provision’ for two extra courts resulted in 55 members doing just that, Terrific! The club was able to make a powerful case at the council submissions hearing on 11th February. Whether or not it has the desired effect we will learn in the next few months. Whatever the outcome, the club can take satisfaction that collectively we have done everything possible to put forward our case.
– secondly, the outside deck was miraculously renovated over a couple of weekends. Much thanks to the ‘in house’ carpentry team of Andrew Morris, Steven Lay and Simon Crampton. There were others who helped assemble the sun blinds etc. A real hit also has been the rustic furniture constructed by Steven. He is taking orders!!!!
– thirdly, we are this week about to resolve the various water supply issues the clubhouse has endured over the past year. A new water supply pipe has been bored under the courts from the water meter beyond courts 4 & 5, emerging under the clubhouse. Once connected it will future proof the supply for decades – no more leaks!
Also on the initiative front, we continue to await a response from the netball club about their stance regarding any court sharing possibilities in the future.
Finally, Tennis NZ are soon sending out their annual Voice of the Participant (VOP) survey project. This survey is a Tennis NZ, Sport NZ and NielsenIQ initiative. You will soon receive details on how to participate in the survey and we encourage our members to participate.
Postponed in 2020 – but ON in 2021
Taking the glass half full approach, it is time to look forward with optimism on many fronts:
Covid – let’s hope the worst is behind us. We must do our bit and scan the QR Code.
Bar Usage – a few prices were raised to reflect cost price increases. The tri-yearly renewal of the bar licence is upon us – we intend to adjust the hours so that the bar can operate on Mondays. ( have you tried the ready mixed Pimms?- worth trying in this hot weather ).
Ladies Days and Men’s Day – are scheduled to take place on Sunday 2nd May and Sunday 16th May, respectively.
Club Champs – Singles and Mixed Doubles are also on the horizon. Singles Club Champs will be played on Sunday 28th March and Mixed Doubles Club Champs being played on Sunday 18th April. Why not enter and make it a bumper field of entries to make up for last years cancellation of these events.
Interclub – for Juniors and Seniors progress post Xmas. Take a look on-line to see how our 28 teams are faring. (SENIOR INTERCLUB , JUNIOR INTERCLUB)
Chelsea Cup – We have another home game on Friday March 12th, commencing at 6.30pm. Come and support our team as they try and qualify for the finals.
Coaching – Our intrepid duo Kenny and Nico continue to bring enjoyment and skills improvement to Juniors and Seniors alike.
Ball Machine – Thanks to Gabe, the charging unit has just been replaced – why not give the ball machine a go?
Hope to see you on court
Alf Sayer
Club President