The Australian Open, the first of four annual tennis tournaments that make up the “Grand Slam” series, may have just wrapped up at the end of January, but the sport shows no signs of slowing down here on the South Shore. With classes, court time, and a wide variety of options available for everybody and every level from beginner to advanced, thousands of South Shore residents find their way to local clay or hard courts year-round to stay fit while having fun.
One of the largest tennis destinations here on the South Shore is at the South Shore YMCA’s Emilson Branch in Hanover. The 10-court facility, including both clay and hard-courts, allows tennis-seekers to find the right level of play to meet their needs. From leagues to competitive doubles, singles, men’s, women’s and mixed teams, 18 dedicated tennis staff members and pros are able to meet players “where they’re at,” allowing for an experience that is unique to each player’s wants and needs.
“Our players both young and old foster a great atmosphere and a sense of community here within the South Shore Y,” said Bob Carroll, Senior Tennis Director, South Shore YMCA. “Our players range from age 4 to 92 – it’s a real diverse group. We see a lot of little kids on our court because many parents steer their children towards tennis. People realize that tennis is something that doesn’t end in high school, it’s a sport that you can stick with for life.”
The sport is thought of so much so in this regard that it is commonly referred to as “the game of a lifetime.” And since tennis is a great sport for all ages, it’s a way for families to spend time together, as well. Fitting for a sport that starts off its scoring with the word “love.”
“We have a lot of parents who hit balls back and forth with their children, as it’s a great option to keep the entire family engaged and active together,” added Carroll. “And for those children not yet ready to play with their parents, they can take advantage of the Y’s babysitting room, free to household members and right next door to our courts. Through the South Shore YMCA, there are so many unique opportunities for our players to take advantage of. What I see with our players is them making more use of their YMCA membership. I’ll see a foursome finish up on the court and go do yoga together. Others go down to the café to have lunch together after a game. I love seeing how tennis can open so many doors for our players. Being a member of a larger organization helps people expand their network both on the court and off.”
For anyone looking to get involved in tennis but doesn’t know where to begin, the first step is as simple as reaching out and getting in touch.
“I have the greatest job in the world, because not only do I get to meet new people every day and introduce or reintroduce them to a great sport, but I get to see people smile while doing it. Our goal is to make exercise fun, so if I see you out there smiling and laughing, we’re doing our job.”
To learn more about tennis at the South Shore YMCA, contact Bob Carroll at [email protected]
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About the South Shore YMCA
The South Shore YMCA is a not-for-profit association of individuals dedicated to improving the quality of life for all through programs that promote healthy spirit, mind, and body. Serving the communities of Quincy, Randolph, Holbrook, Weymouth, Braintree, Milton, Hingham, Hull, Cohasset, Scituate, Norwell, Hanover and beyond, the South Shore Y provides the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive through its services and programs. Financial Assistance is a Y community benefit available to all families in need, applicable to all Y programs and services. To learn more about the South Shore YMCA, visit ssymca.org.
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The Better You Belongs at the South Shore YMCA
Join the South Shore YMCA and become the better you this year: spirit, mind and body. Whether you’re 2 or 102, find everything you need to become the better you at the South Shore YMCA. And with free babysitting and activities for kids, the whole family can enjoy the Y – together! The South Shore Y is a charity, dedicated to providing safe, vibrant spaces and programs for our entire community to enjoy. Financial Assistance is available to those who qualify — so that everyone can truly belong. Join the South Shore YMCA today with Branches in Quincy, Hanover, and a Center in Assinippi Park in Norwell. Visit ssymca.org to join today.
February School Vacation at the SSYMCA
Keep your child’s mind and body active while they’re away from the classroom this February. Our school-age vacation programs are designed to help them burn off extra energy and get their creative juices flowing with activities like swimming, sports, arts and crafts, SkyTrail, games, and the list goes on. If they’re looking for outdoor fun, our South Shore Natural Science Center is offering programs for the snow-seeking explorer, and our Germantown Neighborhood Center can help kids find their inner foodie with cooking and baking classes during the school break. February vacation is also a great time to get certified with American Red Cross courses held at our Quincy & Hanover (Emilson) Branches, including babysitting and lifeguarding. No matter the interest, there’s something for you and your family over school vacation week at the South Shore YMCA. Learn more at ssymca.org.
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