For months over 200 tennis clubs across New Zealand have been busily preparing for this weekend, all with one goal in mind – to showcase tennis as the perfect sport for Kiwi’s young and old. Over 20,000 people from across the country are expected to attend Love Tennis open days, being held from 1-4pm on Saturday and Sunday in nearly every corner of New Zealand.
“The Love Tennis weekend is all about showcasing tennis clubs to their community. Nearly everyone has a tennis club just up the road from them and this weekend they’re united in opening their doors and showing everyone what a great place their local tennis club is. Clubs will be offering lots of fun activities on and off the court and there are loads of giveaways. Best of all it’s 100% free to attend! Whether you’re a former player or have never been to a club before, you will see how easy it is to pick up a racquet and play.” said Tennis NZ CEO Julie Paterson.
Love Tennis 2019 saw 120 clubs taking part and over 14,000 attendees took part. This year promises to be even bigger with 208 venues from Kaitaia to Invercargill. The 2019 event was a finalist in the Event Excellence category in the NZ Sport & Recreation Awards.
“The secret to the success of Love Tennis is our people.” said Love Tennis National Coordinator Mel Jansen.
“We provide all the marketing support and resources to clubs and then they go and connect with the people in their local community. There are thousands of volunteers involved in planning and organising the event and it’s so amazing to see the buzz at the courts and the great atmosphere they create.” said Jansen.
Love Tennis 2020 takes place 10 & 11 October from 1-4pm each day. It’s free to take part, all equipment is provided and no experience is necessary. There are hundreds of giveaways at every club, including vouchers from sponsors Hell Pizza and Rebel Sport. All attendees can enter the major prize draw for a trip to the Te Anau Invitational Tournament.
To find participating clubs and for more info visit: www.lovetennis.kiwi .
