CLARK HITTING A SHOT
As many of you may know, I fell in my verandah in December, 2023 which resulted in a hospital stay and rehab, all of which lasted over six weeks. Several years before that, I had developed neuropathy in my lower legs and feet which affected my nerves, legs, and balance. I have trouble walking unaided, but thanks to physical therapy and the use of a walker, I get around quite well now.
I have played tennis since I was 15 and, at 82, I thought my tennis playing days were over unless I got into wheelchair tennis, which is always a possibility but involves more training. However, Carolyn Lawver, HP Tennis Pro, approached me in April, 2024 about playing tennis while sitting in a chair. I said why not? I started meeting with her once a week for 30 minutes. She would feed me balls on both forehand and backhands, telling me to keep my head down until after I hit the ball which I was not doing enough before I fell.
Voila! I was hitting balls better than ever! She did the same with me on drop shots, lobs, and volleys setting up targets! I was even serving from a chair very well! Eventually, I was able to stand up while holding my left hand on my walker and doing the same things hitting some great strokes, thanks to her wonderful teaching. We even have short rallies where last time we kept the ball going for 23 strokes. (There were two or three two-bounce rallies which is okay in wheelchair tennis.)
So, if you think there is no more tennis due to your leg strength and balance, think again. First, check with your doctor and physical therapist and see if you could be okay doing this.
I realize there is a chance I might even fall standing up, but I know my limitations and realize not to go after balls out of my reach. I have been hitting balls standing for a few months now with no problems. There is a risk, but I feel comfortable doing this. Otherwise, I would still stay in a chair and hit.
I was playing volleyball holding onto a bar with my physical therapist. I am doing the same thing standing and hitting a tennis ball. You could always start in a chair and see if you like it. Try it. It is a great workout! It’s important though, to check with your medical people first. Carolyn is a wonderful teacher no matter what your abilities! See you on the courts!
