Recreation Department Initiative Sees Massive Surge in Popularity and Expands to Inter-Town League Play
Norwood is on track to produce more than 1,000 new tennis players this summer as a popular municipal instructional program experiences an unprecedented surge in demand. Launched three years ago by the Recreation Department for school-age children and adults, the initiative has captured the local spotlight amid what instructor Mrs. Anne Turchan described as an absolute “explosion in tennis popularity.” Recreation Superintendent Kevin Dixon noted that the classes have become so overwhelmed by enthusiastic participants that advance registration will be required next year to manage the massive turnout, replacing the current policy of registering just one week prior.
The final two-week instructional session of the summer is scheduled to commence on August 14. Offered completely free of charge to any Norwood resident, each course encompasses ten one-hour lessons divided into beginner and advanced-beginner groups for boys and girls up to age 15, alongside dedicated classes for adult women. Men’s classes are currently restricted to night sessions during the spring utilizing indoor courts due to a lack of lighted outdoor facilities in town. Superintendent Dixon noted that women have proven to be among the most enthusiastic students, frequently bringing young children to lessons in carriages and playpens, while Mrs. Turchan highlighted tennis’s growing appeal as a lifetime family sport, observing instances where three generations of a single family played together.
A major milestone for the program this summer has been its debut in inter-town league competition, made possible by the rapidly maturing skill levels of local participants. The boys’ team, directed by John DeCosta, has swept all of its matches this season, while the girls’ squad, coached by Mrs. Turchan, secured its inaugural victory last week. Coach DeCosta emphasized an inclusive philosophy ensuring all participants receive playing time based on skill, supplemented by non-league exhibition matches that grant every youngster a chance to compete. Looking to the future, Superintendent Dixon stressed that the program’s runaway success underscores an urgent municipal need for additional tennis courts equipped with lighting to accommodate heavy evening play.
Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger
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