THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, May 12, 1996 TAG: 9605100214
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 15 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY GARY EDWARDS, CORRESPONDENT
LENGTH: Medium: 57 lines
Allen Lewis took up tennis in 1986 at the age of 42. In the 10 years since immersing himself in the game, Lewis has played four or five times a week, competed in tournaments and enjoyed both the physical and social benefits of the game.
It's not surprising that Lewis wants to spread the message about his favorite sport.
``In 1986, there were about 31 million people playing the game,'' said Lewis. ``That's down to about 19 million now.
``We want to encourage the beginning player, or one who has slacked off playing, to return to the court.''
Lewis serves as president of the Virginia Beach Tennis Patrons. The group is working with the Tennis Industry Associates to offer one 90-minute free lesson at 10 sites in Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Franklin and Chesapeake. The clinic to turn the backsliders into better backhanders began May 2 and will continue through May 18.
Lessons will be taught by U.S. Tennis Association teaching pros.
The Tennis Industry Associates consists of tennis apparel and equipment manufacturers, the U.S. Tennis Association, tennis magazines and others, including top touring professionals like Pete Sampras. The association is funding the effort, Lewis said.
``It's a game that people from all walks of life can play and enjoy at any age,'' Lewis said. ``That's not true of many other sports.''
Hampton Roads is one of about 40 areas nationally where the program is being implemented to generate interest. Each site is promoting its own courts and programs during the event, too. ILLUSTRATION: Graphic
FREE LESSONS
Free 90-minute tennis lessons will be offered through May 18 at
these locations:
Virginia Beach Department of Parks and Recreation (Bayville Park,
Owl Creek, Kempsville Recreation Center): 437-4804
Virginia Beach Tennis and Country Club: 481-7545
Deep Creek High School in Chesapeake: 436-7182
Pat Glaunert's School of Tennis in Chesapeake: 482-4179
Lake Meade Landing Tennis Facility in Suffolk: 539-8212
Northside Tennis Center in Norfolk: 441-1762
Tidewater Indoor Tennis Center in Norfolk: 461-3015
James L. Camp Jr. YMCA in Franklin: 562-3491
For more information, call Allen Lewis at 340-6112.
by CNB