Why are you allowed to play tennis in England?
Playing tennis is possible in England following the Government announcement on public spaces, outdoor activity and exercise published on 11 May 2020, which can be read on the Gov.uk website.
Why can’t I play doubles?
As there is a greater risk in doubles format that it could lead to incidental contact and unwanted proximity, during this phase of lockdown restrictions the Government has instructed that only singles is played (other than where all players are members of the same household, in which case doubles can be played).
Why are my local tennis courts not open? (Bicclescombe Park & Atlantic Racquet Centre outdoor courts are open)
Some courts may take time to be unlocked and prepared for use following the closure during the lockdown period. Please also be aware that while the guidance now permits for tennis courts to be open, they are not mandated to. Venues will need to make an assessment based on their own individual circumstances as to whether they feel they can facilitate safe play at their venue, and so where they chose to remain closed please respect this decision.
Why do I need to use my own, marked tennis balls?
Although there is no specific evidence that tennis balls can spread COVID-19, as a precautionary measure it is advised that if you choose to play tennis you follow the measures outlined.
Is coaching activity allowed?
Yes, tennis coaching activity is now possible in England for one to one lessons only.
Are parents/guardians allowed to watch matches?
Spectating is actively discouraged. However, where attendance of a parent/guardian (non-participant) or a carer for a disabled player is required, it should be limited to one per player where possible, with social distancing strictly observed while watching the sessions. Venues may mark out specific boxes/areas for this purpose.
Should we only use alternate courts?
There is no need to leave a gap between courts in use. All courts can be used subject to social distancing being maintained at all times.
When can I take part in a tennis competition?
Given the length of time tennis activity has been suspended, it is advised that anyone returning to court eases themselves back in to play gently and spend time practicing, while also initially taking time to get accustomed to the adaptations in place.
Some formats of competition are able to resume from 13 May - for example Local Tennis Leagues, and singles box leagues/ladders. Competitions such as League Matches, LTA Approved Competitions etc cannot restart at present due to the increased numbers of people in the same space and players will need to be onsite for a reasonable length of time. Find more information in our FAQs for Officials and Competition Entrants.
If a club re-opens its courts, will the LTA Liability insurance protect the club?
The insurance cover for LTA registered venues remains in place as before and will provide protection for clubs provided they are operating within the government guidelines and managing social distancing. Howden recommend all venues should undertake a basic risk assessment of their premises to establish what measures may need to be taken. This will be important if the venue is ever challenged. Ilfracombe Tennis Club has undertaken a risk assessment & the club's committee agreed to reopen the courts from Friday 15th May at 2pm.
Does the LTA insurance protect the club against claims if someone contracts Coronavirus whilst using the courts and sues the club?
Yes. If the club is opening its courts it is essential that this is done in a way that complies with government guidance around social distancing, but provided the club does so the policy would protect the club. The person making the claim would need to be able to prove they contracted the virus at the club, which would be very difficult to do.
Has the club completed a risk assessment?
To ensure the courts are fit for use the club undertook a risk assessment, checking the courts and taking remedial action to rectify any issues. The club's committee agreed to reopen the courts from Friday 15th May at 2pm.
Has the club completed a social distancing risk assessment?
Our club is ensuring that government guidance on social distancing is being followed. The club has included in its risk assessment specific sections relating to social distancing & information is being cascaded to members & the wider public users on a regular basis through communications on-site & off-site.