Dear members,

With Valentines Day this weekend no doubt you are ready for a special treat or tryst, and what better one than to dust off your racquet and start buttering up a partner for a bit of a knock about ready for the new outdoor tennis season which we are launching on Sunday 12th April with a Family Friendly 2026 Tennis Tournament & BBQ

Following the popular format at our close of season day last October, adults please rock up at 10am and we will partner in fairly fast-moving friendly doubles on both courts, with a wee prize for s/he who wins most of their matches. A BBQ lunch and soft drinks will be available (feel free to bring your own beers/tipple) and meet other members and the committee mingle and find out about joining one of the Datchworth Summer League teams.

We will also welcome back our junior coach Wayne who will be on hand to lead children's coaching and holiday camps. Confirmed regular summer opportunities:

• Children's tennis coaching Tuesdays 3.45-4.30, 4.30-5.15
• Adults Sunday turn up and play on the second Sunday of every month 10-12

If you're ready for some immediate indoor play, why not try your hand at Pickleball at the recently hired indoor courts at Knights Templar School's Sports Centre in Baldock. The upcoming sessions are at 6-8pm on Wednesday 18th & 25th February and 4th & 11th March.  The club has paddles and balls, so all you need is appropriate court footwear.  Contact Al Jacoutot at 07900 167363 to reserve your spot. Pickleball has taken off within the club, so if you haven't tried it yet, now is a great time to escape the cold give it a go.

Please note that membership reminders will be arriving in your inbox soon. As the club is in a healthy position, club membership rates will stay at £55 for an individual and £95 for a family.  You will also be pleased - and relieved - to hear that a portaloo will be on site throughout the summer, and we are also looking at ways to get water onto the site too.

Be reminded that we are always delighted to receive ideas for club events or developments and members are always welcome to attend committee meetings, so do get in touch if you would like to come along to the next.

Best wishes,

Ashwell Tennis and Sports Club Committee