As we start to see the gradual relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions in most of Australia, it is vital that the tennis community practices safe guidelines in order to maximise the health & safety of all stakeholders.
Sorry to break the bad news, but high 5’s are going to be off the table for a while!
It’s okay, dry those eyes and lets look at the silver lining. As of May 1st, we are now able to coach our private clients at their tennis court in Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast, and Canberra.
Melbourne is the last remaining Vamos location where restrictions are forcing us to be off court. However, this looks to set to change in the coming weeks.
8 Ways To Safely Social Distance On The Tennis Court
With that in mind, let’s look at 8 things you can do on the tennis court to ensure your health & safety.
1. Private Lessons Only
All sessions must be a private or semi-private lesson. Specific rules regarding the maximum number of people differs from state to state – speak to your coach regarding your areas safety guidelines.
2. Supply Own Equipment
Supply your own equipment for you and/or your child. That means no sharing or borrowing racquets, drink bottles, towels etc.
3. Refrain From Using Communal Facilities
Try not to use or touch communal amenities (water fountains etc) to lessen the potential of the virus spreading. Refrain from touching fences, nets, posts, baskets etc.
4. If you and/or your child are sick, reschedule the lesson
Simply call or message your coach and let them you can’t make the lesson and you will be able to do it at a later date. Don’t risk it!
5. Practise Social Distancing
The biggest insurance we have against the spread of COVID-19 is social distancing. When on court, maintain a 1.5m distance from your coach at all times.
In fact, it’s best to stay on the opposite side of the net as much as possible. No high 5’s, fist bumps, Bryan Brothers style chest bumps etc.
6. Don’t Touch and/or Pick Up The Tennis Balls
Your tennis coach should be the only person to touch the tennis balls. Instead of using your hands to pick up the balls, use your racquet to push the balls into a corner (once used), and the coach can pick them up from there once the basket of balls has been used.
That’s right – make your coach do all the work!
7. Wash Hands Before/After Lesson and Bring Hand Sanitizer
Make sure to wash your hands both before and after the lesson, and try to use hand sanitizer every time you get a drink during a break on court.
8. Re-grip Your Racquet
Make sure you are replacing your over-grip at regular intervals to lessen the buildup of bacteria on your handle.
If your grip used to be Wimbledon white, and now looks like a black hole – it’s probably time for a grip change.
Final Thoughts
Whilst the application of these guidelines may seem a little laborious and over the top, it is vital that you keep both yourself and your kids safe on and off the tennis court.
In addition, putting these guidelines into practice is a surefire way to keep you playing tennis safely and continue the easing of restrictions across Australia.
Stay safe, and see you on court. Vamos!
