Introduction:

Due to the frequent bagging of the courts by Jack and George the surface is ready for tennis. The surrounds need grass cutting, whipper-snipping and garden maintenance. Then the facilities will be most presentable. Wait for Authorities advice, weekend, Working bee TBA.

WDTA:

While Metropolitan Melbourne has endured Lockdown Stage 4, WDTA has not been idle. Their committees, in anticipation of tennis resumption, have planned many competitions within a reduced range of dates. Their enthusiasm continued even though the restrictions caused amendments and cancellations.

Petitions:

Tennis Victoria, as you would expect, being mindful that tennis is ideal for families and competition lodged a petition with the Authorities many weeks ago and follow-up but to no avail as yet.

Whites Lane TC initiated and submitted a petition for the resumption of tennis. Some 5,000 signatories were obtained.

These petitions could be compared to conduct at the recent French Open. Players wore masks entering the court. Masks removed for play and replaced at end of play. In our streets joggers and cyclists are not required to wear a mask in action. Surely, same could apply to local tennis.

Birthdays:

A reliable source advised Year 2020 is a year of lost birthdays, that is no club celebrations. The ladies within weeks of one another, September and October and one in November, are: Pat Norrish going strong at 90, and a group of OBEs Barbara McHenry. Maureen Clothier, Moira Mannix and Jill Grace. Year 1940 was the year of the, nice, Dragon. It is a known fact, Tennis keeps you strong and healthy. The ladies are in good condition and looking forward to another decade.

Outlook:

I have a ‘creeping assumption’ my tennis ability will be significantly increased to the standard of Rafael Nadal. Serious. During the lockdown I have developed Rafa’s preparation at the start of a game. I check if my hearing aids are on my ears, wearing my spectacles, wallet is in a back-pocket and iPhone is in the other pocket.

Tennis:

Looking forward to reduced restrictions.

Best wishes

Alan