Recent funding from Tennis Canada may have a direct impact on the growth and development of the sport in Erin.
“I want to build a vibrant tennis community in this area for everybody,” Doug Ing told council on Feb. 1.
Ing, the club pro with Erin Tennis, explained that Erin, Belfountain, and surrounding areas have received funding over the next three years through Tennis Canada’s Building Tennis Communities (BTC) strategy. He did not specify the amount of funding, but BTC grants usually vary from $1,000 to $4,000 annually. That money will be used in Erin to offer various programs for children, students, adults, and seniors – all free of charge.
Ing said he is hopeful the community becomes “a hotbed for tennis,” with specific focus on students and the following three components:
– a “try program,” through which he will attempt to get as many people as possible to try the game for free;
– a “learn-play component,” in which those with some experience can access “low-cost” coaching; and
– a “play-compete” program, which will basically be a regular league.
He is hoping to have the league started by year three at the latest, and after the funding runs out he wants to start a non-profit organization to keep the tennis programs going.
Councillor John Brennan suggested Ing start accepting donations from the beginning, so the program can carry on after three years. Ing said he would do just that. Brennan then asked if the town has the capacity to handle the types of programs proposed by Ing.
“I believe we do,” Ing replied. He noted he hopes to run a year round operation, with school programs starting in gyms before moving to Erin high school in April. He hopes to incorporate different types of balls and court sizes tailored to the age, experience and skill of particular players.
“I think it’s absolutely a viable program,” Ing said.
Councillor Barb Tocher expressed interest in the programs and said she would be willing to give to Ing several dates to use the high school gym (the town gets 15 days of use per year).
The rest of council agreed and directed staff to work with Ing on organizing those dates.
