From The Activities & Tennis Director

All of the activities at Creekstone Estates encourage an old-fashioned sense of community, where people know their neighbors and families play together. By providing structured opportunities for all age groups, we make it easy to stay healthy and active while learning, growing and creating friendships that will last a lifetime.”

Pat Curry, Activities Director and Tennis Pro

• Pro-One rating with the U.S. Professional Tennis   Association.
• Active in Pro-Am tournaments and ALTA tennis.
• Ranked #1 in Georgia for singles and doubles in the Men’s   25 in 1990.
• Voted Georgia Independent Professional of the Year by the   Georgia Professional Tennis Association in 1989 and 1995.
• Member of Prince’s Elite Team, a national advisory panel of   24 tennis professionals who assist the manufacturer in the   evaluation of rackets, clothing and string.
• 20 years of experience in the tennis industry.

Pat Curry’s Top Tennis Tips

Tip # 1 The key to a good serve? Reach!

When serving, reach up with your racquet hand just like you would for a can on the top shelf. That’s it—up on your toes and extend your arm as far as it will go. Full extension is the key to a good serve.

Tip # 2 Doubles: Plan before you return that serve.

When returning a serve make sure you:

• Know your target before the server tosses the ball.
• Let your partner know what your plan is. This way he or she    can be prepared and ready to react.

What are some targets?

• Deep crosscourt
• Short crosscourt
• Lob down the line
• At the net person

Tip # 3 Time your movement at the net

Use the time the ball spends in the air to prepare for your shot or to get back in position.

When at the net, mirror the ball and when your opponent is about to hit the ball, SPLIT STEP. Then initiate your movement toward the oncoming ball.

Tip # 4 Need help with a consistent forehand?

One of the most important aspects of a consistent forehand is finding the most desirable point of contact. As soon as your opponent hits the ball, turn and point your left hand toward the sideline. The line formed by your left shoulder and knee is where your racquet should make contact with the ball.