Tuesdays, never played or a long time ago
Beginners’ nights
Eight weeks of Tuesdays with Eleri, starting from how to hold the racket. Two courts, a small group, and nobody watching. Rackets lent. By week eight, you will be ready for a Wednesday.
Most of our beginners last played at school, in plimsolls, under some duress. It is much better than you remember.
Tuesday from 6:30pm to 7:30pm is run by Eleri, our head coach, in two side courts, away from the main hall. We take at most twelve people. Week one is grip, ready position and hitting something. Week two is the serve. By about week five, you will have played your first proper game, and by week eight you will know the rules better than most people on a Wednesday.
You do not need kit, beyond flat indoor shoes. We lend rackets for as long as you like, and when you want your own, we will tell you what you actually need, which is much less than the shop will suggest.
New courses begin in September, January and April, but you can join in any week and catch up. Plenty of people carry on coming on Tuesdays after the eight weeks, because it is at a nice time and they like the people.
What you get
- An eight-week course, three times a year
- At most twelve people on two courts
- Rackets and shuttles lent
- A coach who starts at the very start
- First session free
- A move up to club nights, when you are ready
What it costs
First session free, and then £5 a night. Pay and play or join works out which is cheaper for you.
Questions about beginners’ nights
I am 68 and have a dodgy knee. Should I bother?
Yes, but tell Eleri about the knee. Doubles is kinder than you would think, and we have members in their eighties. Ask your doctor if you have been told to take care.
Do I have to do all eight weeks?
No. Pay by the night, and come when you can.
Your first night is free.
Bring flat indoor shoes. We lend the racket, and Alun puts your name on the board.