Prince George Tennis Club members traded in their racquets for work gloves and screw drivers Saturday.
It was part of the club's annual spring cleanup to spiffy the courts up, even though the season has already been in full swing since mid-March.
The eight hardcourts were cleared of debris, windscreens and sponsorship signs were installed, bleachers were fastened to the concrete and a colourful array of racquets were taken out from winter storage.
"We're open for play right now," said PGTC president Jim Condon. "Our membership fees are set... we have 30 members signed up already and between 18 to 20 school programs booked."
Besides joining the club, anyone can play for a day for a drop-in fee.
Tournaments this season include the Mix 'n Match on May 23, the Pickleball Open from June 13 to 14, and the PG Open from June 19 to 21.
"The Mix 'n Match is a new doubles tournament where lower level teams play higher level teams," said Condon. "And pickleball is growing in popularity - we have two pickleball courts right now but we can have up to five courts running. We already have 30 pickleball members."
Group and individual lessons will be available May 25 once Kristian Kiland, the club's full-time tennis coach, returns home to Prince George from his sophomore season with the Doane College Tigers based in Crete, Nebraska.
Kiland is the team's No. 2-ranked men's player.
For members, group clinics are free. All that's required is a racquet, a pair of runners and some balls. The club also has some racquets that can be borrowed for lessons and clinics.
The club, with eight lit courts, is located at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club behind the main building and to the right of the pro shop. Member or drop-in fees can be paid at the Golf Pro Shop before using the courts.
Members receive unlimited playing time throughout the year, obtain voting rights, have use of the ball machine and other equipment, have access to the list of members and are offered some free clinics.
For those who require more information, call 250-564-5683, online at www.pgtennis.ca or email [email protected]
