Sep. 26, 2023 By Rachel Butler
Flushing Councilwoman Sandra Ung joined local senior citizens at Kissena Park for the first session of a free tennis program that is now available to residents ages 60 and above.
The program is administered by the City Parks Foundation and made possible due to a $15,000 allocation in the Fiscal Year 2024 budget secured by Ung.
“City Parks Foundation ran a very successful tennis program in Kissena Park over the summer for the youth in our community, and now I am encouraging our seniors to take part in the fall program,” Ung said. “It will not only help you stay active, but this is an opportunity to learn a new sport that is a great way for older adults to stay fit.”
Councilwoman Sandra Ung with participants in the first session of a new free tennis program for seniors in Kissena Park.Courtesy of Office of Councilmember Sandra Ung
City Parks Foundation provides all of the equipment and instructors for the program. Anyone who is interested in taking part in the free program is advised to wear comfortable shoes on the day and register in advance via the City Parks website.
“City Parks Foundation is incredibly proud to partner with Council Member Ung whose funding makes this program possible,” said Jonathan Gamberg, director of operations for City Parks Foundation. “Tennis not only promotes an active lifestyle but also brings our community members together, fostering friendships on and off the court.”
They tennis courts at Kissena Park have undergone renovations recently. The four clay courts that were long closed to the public have been renovated and reopened to players. Clay courts are generally considered better for older players because they are softer and players can slide into the ball during their stroke. Clay courts are still playable in light rain because the courts are meant to be slightly wet when played on, and the surface absorbs water better than hard courts.
Councilmember Sandra Ung with Jonathan Gamberg and Katie Swabb of City Parks Foundation on the recently reopened clay courts in Kissena Park.Courtesy of Ung’s office
Sessions take place every Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to noon and run from now through to Nov 11.