Estling Lake

Usage of tennis court

I have some good news to share with the community today.  The Governor of NJ signed Executive Order 147 which allows tennis courts to reopen as of this weekend 5/23/2020.  I will clear the court of any debris and install the net this weekend so that the community can use the tennis court under the following rules:

• Singles Only.  No doubles.
• No spectators.
• Players must practice social distancing by keeping a minimum of six feet apart from other players to ensure you and your fellow players are in a safe exercise environment.
• The bleachers/benches are to remain closed as per NJ Gov EO.  Bring your own chair if needed.
  
• Bring your own water/drinks as the water fountain will remain closed.
• Use the bathroom before arriving at the courts.  There will not be a portable restroom at the athletic field.
• All other courts/activities (volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, baseball/softball, etc) remain closed at this time.

Failure to follow these rules may result in closure of the court.

Here are some additional guidelines published by the USTA to minimize the risk of COVID19 transmission.  Please do your best to follow these while playing tennis:

• Arrange to play only with family members or others who live in your household or with individuals who are considered to be low risk.
• Do not play if any of you:
  • Are exhibiting any symptoms of the coronavirus: mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough and difficulty breathing, or other symptoms identified by the CDC.
  • Have been in contact with someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.
  • Are a vulnerable individual who is an elderly individual and/or an individual with serious underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure, chronic lung disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma and those whose immune system is compromised such as by chemotherapy for cancer and other conditions requiring such therapy
• Wash your hands with a disinfectant soap and water (for 20 seconds or longer) before going to the court.
• Clean and wipe down your equipment, including racquets and water bottles. Do not share racquets or any other equipment such as wristbands, grips, hats and towels.
• Use new balls and a new grip, if possible.
• Avoid touching court gates, fences, benches, etc. if you can.
• Avoid touching your face after handling a ball, racquet or other equipment. Wash your hands promptly if you have touched your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Avoid sharing food, drinks or towels.
• Use your racquet/foot to pick up balls and hit them to your opponent. Avoid using your hands to pick up the balls.
• Stay on your side of court. Avoid changing ends of the court.
• Remain apart from other players when taking a break.  
• Use a hand sanitizer after coming off the court. Wash your hands thoroughly when you return home.
• No extra-curricular or social activity should take place. No congregation after playing.
  
• All players should leave the facility immediately after play.
• Although unlikely, it’s possible that a tennis ball can transmit the COVID-19 virus, as virtually any hard surface can transmit the disease. So here is an extra precaution you can take to keep safe when playing tennis:
  • Open two cans of tennis balls that do not share the same number on the ball.
  • Take one set of numbered balls, and have your playing partner take a set of balls from the other can.
  • Proceed with play, making sure to pick up your set of numbered balls only. Should a ball with the other number wind up on your side of the court, do not touch the ball with your hands. Use your racquet head or feet to advance the ball to the other side of the court.

On a related note, the Athletic Field Committee is actively working with contractors to schedule a time for the court to be repaired and resurfaced.  The exact timing is not know yet but we will keep everyone informed as decisions are made.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding during these challenging times.