The Tennis Life

article by PHIL TRAHAN

Welcome to the reincarnation of The Tennis Life, last seen in 2018 but now returning to cover the rich landscape that is NELA tennis! We will celebrate achievements, promote programs and offer tips from the seasoned professionals plying their trade on the courts of NELA. 

Speaking of achievements, the local duo of Vickie Krutzer and Tori Fisher recently recently returned from Boston and a third place finish in the US National Mother-Daughter Championships. Playing on the grass courts of the hallowed Longwood Cricket Club, the Monroe girls were edged out despite earning a pool play win over the eventual champions.  Promotion and inclusion are keys to a healthy tennis environment and ULM head coach Ivone Alvaro led her team in hosting the first Faculty/Staff clinic at Heard Stadium September 15th. 

Tipster Says This month’s Tipster is Joel McGregor, Director of Tennis at the MAC: Use the two-shot tactic to achieve better success against aggressive net rushing opponents. Many defensive players opt to hit their first passing shot down the middle of the court and at their opponent’s feet. This gives the net player no angle to work with and also forces him/her to volley up. The second passing shot has now been made much easier and it was all set up by directing the first shot low and down the middle of the court.

Heard at the Net Post    

• NELA’s ability to host events and generate tennis tourism will be greatly enhanced by the recently announced expansion of Forsythe Tennis Center to a total of 15 courts accompanied by a large clubhouse with second floor veranda for viewing.

• Kiroli Park Tennis will benefit from a resurfacing of the existing six courts and addition of a seventh.    

• And the annual WillPower tournament benefitting St. Jude Hospital will be held at Forsythe November 11th. Contact Mike McGee at 318-614-2474 for details and entry.