Borders tennis gets ready to resume service

Tennis is one of the sports allowed a tentative comeback under phased lockdown relaxations by the Scottish Government

Confirmation from the Scottish Government of a paring back of lockdown procedures, under a phased programme, has enabled the regulated comeback of such outdoor sports as tennis, golf, lawn bowls and fishing.

Jonny Adamson, junior district coach, said: “The news that playing tennis will be allowed again, once the country moves into phase one of the route out of lockdown, is, of course, very welcome.

“Playing tennis is great for our health, both physically and mentally, and is an accessible sport that people of any age can enjoy.

“However, it is important that those wanting to play tennis again can do so in a safe and secure environment that poses no risk to the health of themselves or others around them.”

Tennis Scotland has issued a detailed set of guidelines to herald a tentative return to play which, said Mr Adamson was “quite rightly, very detailed and strict”.

Clubs across the region are therefore working hard to ensure their venue is risk assessed and measures are in place to meet all safety requirements – and that this information is relayed to their local community.

Clubs which do not have the capacity to do this, for whatever reason, will remain closed at this time.

“We must therefore insist that anyone wishing to play tennis contacts their club beforehand, firstly to check it is open and then to book their court in advance,” said Mr Adamson.

“It’s vital that we avoid instances of any unnecessary travel or risk of large gatherings at tennis venues.

“This is also not a return to tennis as normal, and players will need to follow strict guidelines to make sure social distancing and good hand hygiene is maintained at all times.

“Players should, therefore, read and become familiar with the guidance made available to them by the club and which has been published on Tennis Scotland’s website, before deciding to play.”

Mr Adamson added: “If anyone is unsure of who to contact at their local club, or has questions about the guidance, please contact us on [email protected].”