Groundwork laid for tennis courts

GEORGE NEWS - Groundwork for the recently announced international clay tennis court complex in Rooirivier Rif has begun.

The developer, Jonathan Hills, last week moved onto the site on the corner of Plattner Boulevard and Barkhuizen Drive.

If all goes according to plan, the first ball can be served in September at the only tennis centre in South Africa to offer full-size clay courts (800m²) that comply with ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) standards.

Hills told George Herald that the R15-million development of Telesto Clay Tennis Centre will be executed in three phases. The first phase will comprise the completion of the clay courts and a temporary clubhouse, locker room facilities and coffee shop.

The permanent plans include locker rooms, a pro shop, players' lounge, mini fitness centre and private gym, a few offices and a coffee shop and restaurant, all in a contemporary African style.

Singer Elvis Blue will be opening his coffee shop, Elvis Brew, on the premises. Also, one of the top tennis academies in South Africa, Riaan Venter Tennis Academy, based at North-West University, will be establishing a branch at the Telesto Centre.

Hills was a professional player and coach before becoming involved in property development in Gauteng.

He retired to George two years ago, but soon began contemplating new opportunities, and the idea of the clay courts took flight. Tennis South Africa (TSA) has welcomed the project.

The company that built the French Open courts is the consultant on the project. Six clay courts will be built with the aim of drawing major international tennis tournaments. One of the courts will have a roof, making it the first covered permanent clay court in South Africa.

"I decided on clay because 80% of ranked players in the world grow up on clay courts," said Hills. "The reason South Africa does not have more players who can participate internationally, is because they do not have clay to practise on. A clay court makes for much more spectacular tennis. It requires a much stronger mental game and the player needs to be fitter as the game is slower and longer."

There are three levels of international open tournaments - the Futures level, Challenger level and ATP level. The Telesto Centre will start with tournaments on the Futures level and aims to eventually prove its mettle to move on to ATP level.

"Telesto will also be a national training facility for overseas tournaments where any coach can bring their players for training camps. We will furthermore be inviting tennis academies from over the world to send their players during their summer holidays. George will feature on every pamphlet and website where we market," said Hills.

International exposure

Hills foresees that junior international tournaments will also be held here, which will provide much-needed experience to local players who mostly cannot afford international exposure. "Currently, a crucial missing element that prevents South Africa from producing more international players in the top 50 is training and development on clay courts."

Hills will establish a development programme through which talented previously disadvantaged children will be identified and sponsored.

Hills said George is the ideal venue for a clay surface. "The weather is favourable for clay courts which dry out quickly in dry and hot climates. The fact that it is close to sea level and has a higher atmospheric pressure is another bonus. Most international clay courts are located near the coast. When I approached George Municipality in search of suitable land, I was fortunate that a property was available that was already zoned for sport development."

He said George being in a favoured tourist area will be an additional drawcard for players and spectators. The site is also close to the airport. "I believe the huge socioeconomic impact of having international courts here will be a massive boost for George."

An architect's rendition of the Telesto Clay Tennis Centre.