We are all thrilled that we are able to re-open but we want to make sure we stay that way!. If we are found to not be in compliance with State COVID-19 rules, we could be shut down again.

So, we are all going to have to cooperate and modify our behavior for at least the first few weeks and we will re-evaluate later.

What follows are FIVE WRC-SPECIFIC rules you all MUST follow and then some additional suggestions/recommendations from the USTA.

 

WRC RULES

1) No touching gates, fences, etc. Do not use the path behind the fences to get to/from the courts. Wait for a break in play on courts you need to traverse and then walk behind the lined areas to get to your court. Please, everyone be understanding of the minor inconvenience.

2) BYO water. The water fountains will not be working.

3) SANITIZE - Bring your own sanitizer and wipes and USE them before and after playing. Use gloves for handling the brooms or sanitize your hands after use. We will try to provide as many of these items as we can get our hands on but for now, BYO.

4) COURT SIGNUP - there will be a bulletin board with a court signup sheet OUTSIDE of the clubhouse. Please throw a pen/pencil in your bag and use only your own writing instrument. Do not share! 

5) NO CONGREGATING - as much as many of us enjoy socializing before and especially after playing, it's just a bad idea. Play your game, leave the courts and leave the club. BE SAFE!

 

Basic Information From USTA for ALL players @ WRC

5.4.20
PLAYER PRECAUTIONS:
Although there is no specific evidence that tennis balls can spread COVID-19, we know that contamination by respiratory droplets from an infected person can potentially survive on hard surfaces up to three days.  If you choose to play tennis, be sure to practice these safety tips and recommendations.

DO NOT PLAY if 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.  A vulnerable individual 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.

PREPARING TO PLAY
Protect against infections:

• Sanitize: 
  o Bring your own sanitizer and wipes and USE them before and after playing.   This includes racquets and water bottles.  DO NOT SHARE EQUIPMENT.
  o Use gloves for handling the brooms or sanitize your hands after use.
  o Individuals may consider taking extra precautions such as wearing gloves and a mask.
  o Bring a full water bottle.  Water fountains will not be available.
  o We will try to provide as many of these safety items as we can get our hands on but for now, BYO.
  o Avoid using the clubhouse.  If you MUST use the restroom, sanitize before & after using the facilities.
  o Avoid touching court gates, fences, benches, etc. if you can.  Do NOT use the pathway behind courts 3 & 4.  Do NOT use the gate to court 6.
• Social Distance:
  o Arrive as close as possible to when you need to be there. 
  o No socializing or congregating. 
  o Chairs and tables should NOT be used.

WHEN PLAYING (recommendations)

• Try to stay at least six feet apart from other players. Do not make physical contact with them (such as shaking hands or a high five).
• Avoid touching your face after handling a ball, racquet or other equipment.  Sanitize your hands promptly if you have touched your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Suggest using your racquet/foot to pick up balls and hit them to your opponent.   If a ball from another court comes to you, send it back with a kick or with your racquet.
• Stay on your side of the court.  Avoid changing ends of the court.
• Remain apart from other players when taking a break.
• If you need to sneeze or cough, do so into a tissue or upper sleeve.
• Avoid sharing food, drinks or towels.
• USTA suggestion:  Use one can of balls per person:  Although unlikely, it’s possible that a tennis ball can transmit the COVID-19 virus, as virtually any hard surface can transmit the disease.  This is an extra precaution you can take to keep safe when playing tennis:
  o Open two cans of tennis balls (singles) or four cans of balls (doubles) that do not share the same number on the ball.
  o Take one set of numbered balls and have your playing partner take a set of balls from the other can.
  o 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.

AFTER PLAYING

• Leave the court as soon as reasonably possible.
• Use a hand sanitizer after coming off the court.
• Sweeping Courts – Use gloves or hand sanitizer.
• Do not use the clubhouse or changing area.  Shower at home.
• All players should leave the facility immediately after play.
• No extra-curricular or social activity should take place.  NO CONGREGATING AFTER PLAYING.