The Prince George Tennis Club hopes to make a successful return to popularity this season.
The club, now entirely relocated to its new site behind the Prince George Golf and Curling Club, features eight brand new hardcourts.
And it's inviting everyone to pick up their racquets, meet new players, and play for free this Saturday, May 3, at its annual open house beginning at 10 a.m.
"The eight new courts are all lit, it's all spectator-friendly and we also have five pickleball courts and a practice board," said PGTC president Rob Prideaux. "Anybody can come out and play. We'll have a couple of instructors, and some club members will certainly be there to make them feel welcome."
Prideaux said the club's transition from its former location on Recreation Place across from the Sandman Signature Hotel to its new location required years of planning and meetings. The club's contractor spent last summer and fall building the courts at the new location.
"The transition wasn't too bad," he said. "But it meant we only had four courts last year as well as only 100 members. We used to have between 200 and 250 members. We're expecting to get back up to above 200 this season."
If players can't work on their serve and volley during the day, they're more than welcome to at night when the lights, set on a timing system, can illuminate the courts between 4 p.m. and midnight.
Pickleball is played with a white whiffle ball that's larger than a tennis ball and a wooden paddle. The club hopes to grow the sport in Prince George.
"It's a combination of tennis and table tennis on a badminton court," said Prideaux. "We're hoping to have pickleball tournaments this year. It's huge in the U.S. It's perfect for people to get some exercise or for people who have slowed down and can't get to a tennis ball."
On Mondays and Thursdays at noon, competitive pickleball will be on the courts, while men's and ladies tennis doubles are slated on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. They're open to anyone.
Even though the Prince George Tennis Club calls itself a club, everyone is welcome throughout the summer. Players can pay a drop-in fee of $10 per player, or if they purchase a membership that ranges from $100 for seniors and $150 for singles to $300 for families, they receive a shoe tag and can play anytime.
"Coaches will be there throughout the summer and private and group lessons are available," said Prideaux. "Come on out and we'll be available."
To access the new courts, park in the PGGCC lot, walk outside past the restaurant toward the pro shop and go right. Fees can be paid at the pro shop.
For more information, visit pgtennis.ca
