Sue Manley
Sue Manley – Dartmouth Tennis
How long have you played tennis?
Many years – my husband and I were both PE teachers and it was part of the job. We moved to Dartmouth in 2013 and I have been involved with the local club ever since. That’s how I made my friends!
How does the club work?
We are called The Jubilee Tennis Club and have five or six sessions a week - that’s when 16 people come together to play some informal matches. We play both during the day and in the evenings to help people who work. It’s not too hard to fill the courts - over 50 people are in 'the book’ and lots of Dartmouth residents like the sport.
What is ‘the book’?
People take turns to be in charge of it. Then it’s their job to organise the next lot of games – making sure they fill the courts and everyone has a partner. They also have to field calls from people asking to play. It’s a bit of a responsibility and I’m not sure everyone enjoys being handed ‘the book’!
What is the average age of the club?
We range from 55 to 80 and are definitely after some younger members. Anyone can come and play with us as long as you know your basics. We are happy to help coach and organisers will match people with similar skills.
Do you play other clubs in Devon?
We are part of the South Hams League. We have a men’s and a ladies team and we can hold our own! Our big event of the year is the Regatta Tournament – that’s probably the most serious we get.
Where do you live?
Literally a stones through from the court. I can stand at my window and see who is playing!
Does that have its advantages?
Yes I enjoy looking for new recruits! Anyone can hire the courts and if I see good players I don’t recognise I have been known to go down and try and collar them for the club! It’s also handy for keeping an eye on the courts as sometimes children go in there and mess around - some even take their bikes in.
What is good about tennis?
It’s a social sport. Most of us play doubles so you get to chat to your partner and have a bit of banter with your opponents. It’s not too intense but you still stay fit and active.
What are your après tennis activities?
There is often a drink or two afterwards. That’s normally at the Floating Bridge or Ship in Dock. We are a social bunch - we often have get-togethers and there’s always a Christmas party.
Are you ‘hardy all weather types’ or do games often get rained off?
We pretty much come out whatever the weather. If it’s looking too wet the organiser of the session will ring round to cancel, but it doesn’t happen very often. There was one time when I was the organiser on a night when bad weather had been forecast and I kept thinking ‘it will be fine’ – most people turned up and it was one of the wettest, windiest evenings of the year. I remember the ferries were stopped but we continued!
Where can we find you if you are not on the court?
My other passion is swimming off Sugary Cove. I only do it when it’s good weather and the tide is low.
What can’t you live without?
Coffee
What is your favourite meal?
Roast lamb
If you want to join email susancmanley2004@yahoo.co.uk
First published By The Dart magazine May 2017
