Back in the spring, after being in Kitchener for a while, I realized I needed to find a way to spend my time, for other than being at home (Angi's), passing time and working at Angi's business (Meanscreens), and shopping, I had nothing much to do. Thankfully, at Kitchener's 50+ Rockway Centre I found a group I could join, possibly make new friends and get some much-needed exercise: the tennis group. I learned that the members played every weekday morning on four courts reserved for play from 8:30 - 11:30. And fortunately, a quick check of google maps showed me that the park was only a twenty-minute walk from Angi's. She loaned me her raquet, and I went along.
That very first day I found the group to be friendly and welcoming. The level of play is quite high, considering we're all 'senior citizens'. Apparently the Tuesday/Thursday group is more for beginners, and after playing a few rounds my new friends assured me that I played well enough to be in the more experienced group.
During the spring and summer I played quite often: each Monday, Wednesday and Friday as long as the courts were dry. Apparently the tarred surface of public courts stays wet and can be very slippery after rain, and none of us wanted to take the chance of falling and possibly breaking a limb.
To add to the social component of the group, there was a pot-luck luncheon organized to celebrate Canada Day. Not only were we asked to bring along a dish but also to wear red. Well, I arrived that day with carrot sticks and dip but had completely forgotten about the dress code and instead was wearing a yellow top with black shorts! Oh well, at least I stood out in the group photo. :)
The meal was delicious with plenty to go around, even if our table was the last to be called to serve ourselves. Following the lunch, a lovely couple I'd got to know earlier in the season invited me and my friend for drinks in their garden. And today I've again been invited to this couple's home -- for dinner this time -- since I won't be playing with the group again, at least this year.
That very first day I found the group to be friendly and welcoming. The level of play is quite high, considering we're all 'senior citizens'. Apparently the Tuesday/Thursday group is more for beginners, and after playing a few rounds my new friends assured me that I played well enough to be in the more experienced group.
During the spring and summer I played quite often: each Monday, Wednesday and Friday as long as the courts were dry. Apparently the tarred surface of public courts stays wet and can be very slippery after rain, and none of us wanted to take the chance of falling and possibly breaking a limb.
To add to the social component of the group, there was a pot-luck luncheon organized to celebrate Canada Day. Not only were we asked to bring along a dish but also to wear red. Well, I arrived that day with carrot sticks and dip but had completely forgotten about the dress code and instead was wearing a yellow top with black shorts! Oh well, at least I stood out in the group photo. :)
The meal was delicious with plenty to go around, even if our table was the last to be called to serve ourselves. Following the lunch, a lovely couple I'd got to know earlier in the season invited me and my friend for drinks in their garden. And today I've again been invited to this couple's home -- for dinner this time -- since I won't be playing with the group again, at least this year.
Extras waiting for their turn to play. Sometimes there are more than one dozen people waiting, but it's a good time to chat.
No comments:
Post a Comment