Tennis Etiquette Part Two

Tennis Etiquette

The number one rule is to show up on time. And this is something that I've improved upon.
Getting to the site early gives you time to stretch, put your bag and towel down, chat a bit with your friends or opponent(s), and prepare to play. If you don't do this you are starting off stressed, which is not a good way to begin a game. Also, your opponent(s) are wondering if or when you are going to show. That isn't a good way to start off. In a way, you are giving an extra reason to beat you, even if they are not consciously aware of it. It also shows that you don't respect the match time, which is probably your sacred event of the week. As I read this, it makes even more sense. We can all do better in this regard, unless you're totally the accountant, and have already deducted points from your opponents, based upon the rules of your league.

Rule number two is remember what you are there for, to play tennis. Avoid loud exclamations, talking, stalling, blowing your nose between every shot, yelling after shots, like you own the building, and the world revolves around you. It doesn't. No one likes a loud mouth. Unfortunately, you are not even aware of it, because it is your persona. Try not to bring a loud persona onto the court. It drives all the courts crazy and your opponents. I'll give Wil Farrell a break on this, because he truly is funny. And I'd pay to watch him play tennis.

Rule number three is come clean to the court. Yup, there are people who smell. Can't believe I have to say this. That means, use deodorant, preferable non-scented. Scents on the court give you a head ache. Can you imagine playing tennis while sniffing a scented candle, perfumes, sprays, petroleum products, nitrogen waste (trying to be polite)? This being said, if a woman where's a little of the right perfume, four foot radius of impact, that smells like fresh linen, fine. I can put up with that. And yes I suppose a guy could have a similar product on, but you shouldn't smell like an OLD SPICE commercial. Also if you are outside, bug spray is fine. Be careful not to wear scents that attract bugs and killer bees. There are some scents that do this. Also Sun Block is great and needed, but be careful not to apply over your eyes and on your hands. Imagine not being able to see or hold the racquet. Yup, I've done it. Also in this category is clothes. At least wear clean clothes. Do not wear dirty smelly clothes to the court. The game is better than that. We are civilized people if we can read. Tennis used to be a sport where white clothing was required and still is at certain private clubs across the planet. Times have changed and so has restrictions on this. Some clubs will say, no large logos, no t-shirts, only tennis clothing, only collared shirts. It isn't always clear or enforced. I always carry a pair of white shorts and a white polo in my bag. Lacoste would be proud. If sunny and hot, turn the collar up to keep the back of your neck cool. A bandana helps with this as well. A hat or visor is tremendously helpful with sun protection, heat protection, eye protection, and shade. You should always have one in your bag. Make sure you soak in warm water after the match with a little soap and rinse it, and put in the sun or put in the dryer and set on low. I love hats. Wearing one backwards is not comfortable to me, or wearing it sideways. That being said, there are some who love it that way. To each his own in that regard. A cowboy hat, or other wide brim hats, or bonnets, should not be worn as it is not a costume show. Avoid the extremes on hats. White baseball caps seem the most logical, but any color is acceptable in my mind.

If you like this, I'll keep going...…