The Perfect Match: Tennis at Elk River Club
As the sun peeks through the trees, you lace up your tennis shoes and grab snacks and water. Friends are meeting you at the tennis courts to play doubles. You are looking forward to the challenges and laughs the day will bring, knowing how good it will feel to move your body and soak up the sun. At Elk River Club, many of our members are tennis enthusiasts, having experienced the benefits of playing the game first-hand. Their love of tennis is well-suited to our courts and our club. The natural beauty of the North Carolina High Country and our timeless Har-Tru tennis courts make for the perfect match. All levels are comfortable on our courts, where you’ll find a bustling calendar complete with weekly mixers, private and group lessons, kids’ clinics, charity tournaments, and pro exhibitions.
Keep reading for a taste of what you can expect when playing tennis at Elk River Club.
Tennis for Health and Wellness
Whether you have been playing tennis for years or are returning after a long hiatus, there are many reasons to pick up a racquet. Below is a sampling of the benefits of tennis according to the U.S. Tennis Association (USTA):
- Stronger bones
- Reduces stress
- Cardiovascular fitness
- Weight loss
- New relationships within communities
Additionally, a Southern Connecticut State University study found tennis players scored higher in vigor, optimism and self-esteem than other athletes and non-athletes. Tennis is good for your brain—a University of Illinois study found tennis may generate new connections between nerves in the brain. For younger players, the USTA highlights improvements in social skills, sportsmanship, coordination, agility and balance, problem-solving, self-confidence and more.
Our Director of Tennis
Members look forward to the instruction provided by our Director of Tennis, Harold “H” Wetzel. During his time at Upsala College in East Orange, NJ, he played #1 singles and #1 doubles four years in a row. Being involved in Charles Lundgren’s “Camp Racquet” and Project Jersey (a tennis program for elite tournament players) left its mark on his approach. When asked about his teaching style, “H” says, “I try to keep my lessons geared to the success of each individual student so they have a positive experience that will keep them coming back to the courts.” His enthusiasm can’t be beat, fueled by his interest in helping our members improve their game while having “as much fun as possible.”
Har-Tru Clay Courts
We chose Har-Tru clay courts with our members in mind. Beyond reducing the risk of injury and keeping the court surface up to 20 percent cooler compared to hard courts, Har-Tru cites the following as reasons to opt for clay courts:
- Promotes core footwork and balance skills
- Teaches players to succeed on any surface
- 8 out of 10 champion players grew up playing on clay
- Develops strength, fitness, and endurance
- Soft, sliding clay reduces common tennis injuries
- Slower ball speed means a more enjoyable game.
A Top-Flight Experience
Are you ready to improve your tennis game and learn from the pro? Contact us to learn about the many opportunities available to our members.
Elk River Club is a private mountain golf community in Western North Carolina with the first Signature Jack Nicklaus golf course in the state. Residents and guests enjoy surrounding views of Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain and Grandfather Mountain. Amenities include an Equestrian Center, a private, on-premise airport, Har-Tru tennis courts, a pool complex, spa services, Clubhouse, casual and fine dining, fishing, events and more.