Playing by the rules – tennis court do’s and don’ts
A game of tennis can swat your stress away and enhance the quality of community living. Strata or body corporate properties that have tennis courts and other shared sporting amenities may also have specific protocols outlined in the property by-laws and rules
Taking note of these five rules can help you make the most of your leisure in strata living:
- Book the court ahead of time
- Follow the schedule
- Follow the dress code
- Stick to the sport while on the court
- Do not smoke on the court
Book the court ahead of time
Courts are limited, and they are accessible to everyone equally. If you’re planning to use the court, you should make an application to book it ahead in time and secure your slot. If you need to cancel, you should do so in advance, so others who wish to play can have access to the court too.
Follow the schedule
Make a note of the timings so you know when the courts are open and closed. Take care to finish your game on time so you do not exceed your time slot or inconvenience the players who have booked the court after you.
Follow the dress code
Looking the part is just as important as playing the part. When you have the right attire, you are can play more comfortably. You can opt to dress in tennis shorts, tracksuits and team it with a shirt or blouse as necessary. Wearing the right tennis sports shoes or training shoes completes the ensemble and helps keep the court clean.
Stick to the sport while on the court
It’s important to maintain decorum and ensure your behaviour does not disturb other players. Don’t play anything else or walk around while others are playing – this can distract other players and you may get injured from stray balls. Also, take care to keep an eye on your young children if they’re around while you’re using the court.
Do not smoke on the court
Sporting areas call for a certain kind of etiquette. Smoking on the court can not only be distracting for players and spectators, it can be unsafe too. Moreover, smoking on common property is always a no-no, so make sure you are always aware of your by-laws around smoking.
In Queensland, there are new laws regarding tennis courts and sporting amenities. If your body corporate property has plans to construct, maintain or repair a tennis court or another sporting areas, they should take note of the recent amendments that have come into force effective from 22 April 2019. They should particularly take note of the new legislative requirements while preparing or excavating of the site, using concrete for the construction, or applying other kinds of materials for treating the surface of the court.
If you’d like to stay in touch with legislation updates and to access helpful resources, visit our webpage to stay informed. Or ask a question at StrataFAQ.com.au.