My Racquet Club Celebrates 35 Years of Fun

Last Saturday the Georgetown Racquet Club celebrated 35 years of fun, fitness and friendship. I have personally been an active member of the club for 32 of those years.

The Club is off the beaten track so you have to be looking for it to find it. It is located on Armstrong Avenue, in our Georgetown industrial area, and is just east of the Sinclair intersection. This doesn't sound like an appealing area but the surprising thing is that as soon as you turn into the driveway you are transported to an entirely different landscape. You instantly find yourself in a wooded paradise nestled in the Credit River Valley.

The first picture illustrates the point. It shows the 2 lighted tennis courts carved out of the wooded valley. I have personally watched deer wander by as I was playing tennis. It is an idyllic place to relax and enjoy a spirited game of tennis with friends.

The second picture shows a visitor to the open house as he tries one of the skills tests that were set up for anyone to try. There are 2 American courts and 2 International courts at the club. They have different dimensions but it is still the same game and players use both courts depending on what is available. The club also has an exercise room and saunas in the locker rooms.

I can honestly say that the club has played a very important role in my life. I have developed some of my best friendships at the club. We have celebrated together and supported each other throughout the years. I certainly had no such expectations when I joined all those years ago.

Of course playing squash is also important to me as part of my fitness program. I find that I can totally lose myself in the game and forget how hard I have to work to get to the ball. It is a fun way to work up a sweat while having a lot of fun. I feel really fortunate to still be playing this game at my age.
There are opportunities at the club for all skill levels and all ages. It is indicative of a great club when there are young players who develop into great players and that has happened here. Melanie Jans and Andrew Jones both started in the junior program went on to great national and international prominence. Melanie is our first Olympic star. Andrew came back to the club for the 35th anniversary and played an exhibition match to show all of us just how the game is supposed to be played.

If you are interested in more information about the club, just call 905 877 0333 or email me if you prefer.