Every September on Love Tennis Day tennis clubs around the country open their doors and courts to their community. So why not bring the whole family and give tennis a go for free at one of six tennis clubs in the Western Bay of Plenty?

Love Tennis clubs will have activities for all ages including coaching sessions, court play, mini games, giveaways and barbecues. The biggest prize is a trip for two to the Australian Open 2025 Grand Slam – including flights, three nights’ accommodation, and mid-week slam tickets!

“Tennis is evolving with lots of all-inclusive, fun tennis programmes available, catering for ages and abilities. WBOP clubs are doing very well, with an increase of 3.7 per cent in membership the past year,” says Tennis WBOP manager Sussa Bailey.

Sussa says tennis is one of the best life coaches you can introduce your child to. “It teaches self-belief, confidence, assertiveness, how to cope with pressure, and how to deal with emotions of winning and losing. Tennis is also a safe non-contact sport that you can play for life.”

Love Tennis 2024 also proudly supports NZ’s Mental Health Foundation. “If you’re struggling, or know someone affected by mental health, come along to Love Tennis Day. Everyone is welcome; equipment is provided. We’d love to see you!”

Pāpāmoa siblings Luke Evans, 9, and Kaia Evans, 6, just love tennis. Photo: Debbie Griffiths.

Come and fall in love with tennis in the Bay, on Sunday, September 8 from 10am-2pm at these six tennis clubs:

Gate Pā, Rimu St. See: www.clubspark.kiwi/GatePaTennisClub

Mount Maunganui, Blake Park, Maunganui Rd, on Sunday, September 22. See: www.clubspark.kiwi/mtmaunganui

Ōmokoroa, Western Avenue. See: http://www.omokoroatennis.com

Otūmoetai, Bellevue Park, 77 Windsor Rd. See: www.otumoetaitennis.co.nz

Pāpāmoa, Gordon Spratt Reserve, Parton Rd. See: www.clubspark.kiwi/PapamoaTennisClub

Tauranga Lawn, Tauranga Domain, Cameron Rd. See: www.clubspark.kiwi/taurangalawn

- SunLive