NICK DILLON
TENNIS is in a resurgence in Loxton this year, with the local Hot Shots program nearly tripling its numbers.
The popular junior program for 4-8 year olds has gone from around a dozen kids to 35 in the space of a year.
The number is actually closer to 50 when you count the club’s 8-10 year olds, who now play on a Thursday night with designated coaches.
Organiser Erin Hughes said it was great for the town to have so many kids on the court.
“With COVID there wasn’t a lot of sporting opportunities for 4-8 year olds in winter, so for quite a few of them it’s their first sporting opportunity in some time,” she said.
“They love the experience and bring plenty of energy which is good to see.”
Hot Shots is held at the Loxton Recreation Centre every Saturday from 9.15am and focuses on foundation skills.
“A lot of hand-eye co-ordination is involved,” Hughes said.
“We do a lot on how to hold the racquet, because they haven’t learned a lot of foundation skills sporting-wise.
“We also play a lot of fun games which burn off energy.”