Centre seeks affiliation

Press, 23 September 1988, Page 40

Centre seeks affiliation

Canterbury’s Indoor Tennis Centre is hoping to become affiliated to the Canterbury Lawn Tennis Association. The centre on Ferry Road started off slowly, but as clientele builds it is eager to strike an alliance with the Canterbury Association. “We would love to be affiliated,” said Geoff Love, the centre manager. “I have been to Wellington to talk with the New Zealand association, and I have just sent a letter to

the Canterbury Association.

“It would certainly streamline the centre’s role in Canterbury and it would make us more accepted by the clubs.” The indoor Tennis Centre is holding a South Island indoor open tournament this week-end and the early season competition has attracted 16 men’s entries. The tournament replaces the Dunedin indoor tournament which had to be aborted because of a lack

of sponsorship. The women’s draw has only two entries, Amanda Trail and Ann Culhane. Peter Hampton, a top player in Canterbury, will head the men’s seedings. There are also several juniors entered who are keen to test Canterbury’s tennis frontrunners.

Meanwhile, the Wilding Park complex has not suffered from the new venture and is anticipating a busy season. The centre charges $4 for an hour of court time

and Brian Faulls believes that the low cost will keep the customers coming back. “New Zealanders prefer to play outside and the price is structured to suit everyone,” he said. “I don’t believe that the indoor centre will threaten our business.” Hamish Faulls, who managed the centre last year, will not be in charge this season as he plans to strike out on his own and concentrate on coaching.