It has been wonderful to see our members back in action on the courts this past week – it feels great to finally start our season. The huge thank you to all the volunteers and staff who have helped prepare the club opening.
I recognize there is a great deal of frustration about doubles play not being permitted under the current rules. Doubles is a crucial game style for many of our members and it is sorely missed. As of this afternoon, the expected re-opening for doubles is June 14th, when the Province enters "Phase 1".
The Club Board continues to carefully digest all the Provincial regulations that govern our Club. We continue to be informed by Ontario Tennis Association (OTA), which is in close and continued contact with municipal decisions-makers who influence policy enforcement. Consensus between all organizations is that doubles is strictly not permitted under the current Provincial stay-at-home order. Upon review by the City of Ottawa legal department, doubles play has been deemed a “team sport”, despite the protests of other clubs and the OTA. Additionally, the ruling indicates that lessons, even private lessons, are also not permitted. The OTA has specifically asked that clubs do not engage in “off-licence” doubles, for fear that it might generally reverse the decision to open our tennis clubs in advance of the Phase 1 opening.
Despite the extraordinary frustration of our members, the decision to limit tennis to singles-play only remains in place until we are sure there is no repercussion for the club or our membership. This is certainly not our preference, but it is our responsibility as club managing directors. We do not wish to have the club come under financial penalty at this crucial time in our season, let alone contribute to any wide-spread closures within our city.
I am hopeful we may see a policy shift in coming days, as there has been political movement on other current measures. In the meantime, I plead patience to all our members. Doubles will soon be coming!
One suggestion for a slower pace of play for those who find singles too fast or aggressive might be to implement a “green-ball rule”. Green balls are slightly lower density balls which provide significantly more time to respond and move. The club would be happy to lend a few from our pro collection to anyone who may wish a slightly different pace. Another option for modified play could include using half or 3/4 court play to minimize running.
Thank for your patience and understanding as we navigate these changes in our tennis community.
Kindly,
Louise Malhotra
President, RLTC
