Tennis, golf get green light for group play

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This article was published 11/06/2021 (1648 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Starting Saturday, golfers and tennis players alike can expect a few positive changes to the existing public-health orders to allow greater opportunities to play.

Tennis players will be allowed a maximum of five people per court. Doubles play is back in session and lessons are now acceptable with as many as four participants and one instructor per court. Players do not need to be from the same household to play together and share the same court. However, no organized events such as leagues and tournaments can take place as of yet.

Executive Director of Tennis Manitoba, Mark Arndt, said the changes are a step in the right direction.

“We’re moving forward, from the situation we’re currently in so that’s a positive step,” said Arndt.

“I think big picture in July we’ll be able to take a few more steps and return to normal tennis.”

Arndt is enthusiastic about the return to doubles play.

“Tennis being the safe sport that it is, having doubles playing from different households, it opens it up for tennis, the mixed-doubles are great to be able to play with your friends.”

The rules for golf are being adjusted to allow a maximum of five participants per group. If an appropriate barrier is in place, such as a plastic shield between the driver and passenger, people from separate households can share a golf cart.

The prohibition of “organized team games” does not apply to men’s or ladies nights, league play and other team games or competitions such as Ladies Nassau and Mundie Putter.

Executive Director of Golf Manitoba, Jared Ladobruk, shared that eagerness from the golf community as things open up.

“Golf is one of those few sports that is just set up for physical distancing,” said Ladobruk.

“We’re happy to hear that you can golf with up to five individuals in a group. For most places it’s four, with individuals outside of your household. Sports play such a huge role in a lot of families and individuals in communities and that’s ultimately where we’d like to see all sports get to.”

Both directors are hopeful this summer will bring a big return to their respective sports.

“It’s a fantastic sport and opportunity for people to get out, to recreate and get some exercise in, a good walk and do it with family and friends in a safe environment,” said Ladobruk.

“I think in general the community is happy, I think the finish line is near and hopefully we’re going to return to normal very soon,” said Arndt.

“Tennis is so distant, we’re 72, 75 feet apart, and it’s good to see that we’re able to play at a near normal level.”

For more information, see Tennis Manitoba and Golf Manitoba’s website on the latest changes. These health orders are set in effect until June 26th at 12:01 am.

jbernacki@freepress.mb.ca @JosephBernacki