PRE-CONSTRUCTION MEMBERSHIPS SALES A HUGE SUCCESS
Thanks to everyone who purchased a membership!
Your support:
Has demonstrated to Saanich that we have the backing of the tennis community. Has confirmed to investors that this plan is economically viable.
EIGHT CLAY COURTS IN VICTORIA
Our plan is to establish a clay court tennis facility behind the Cedar Hill Recreation Centre in Saanich. We believe that an eight-court tennis facility with an adjacent clubhouse would:
1) Provide the Greater Victoria tennis community with a central location to meet, play and enjoy a club-like atmosphere.
2) Be a perfect surface for our Pacific Northwest climate - allowing play even during light rain, and soon after a rainfall.
3) Provide a soft, natural playing surface that is easier on the body than hard courts.
4) Provide a venue large enough to host tournaments at one site.
This is a serious proposal that we believe will succeed in a relatively short time frame. The support we have received so far has been overwhelming, and will go a long way in ensuring we can move forward with our plan.
We have had very positive meetings with Saanich Parks and Rec adminstrators regarding how to structure building this facility. On January 24th, we are scheduled to present our ideas to the Quadra Cedar Hill Community Association.
LAST CHANCE TO FILL OUT CLAY COURT SURVEY - CLICK HERE
We invite your comments and questions below (only available from the Cedar Hill Clay Court Proposal link on the left of the page).
This page will be frequently updated with new information about the project.
Meet our team:
Dean Gillis
John Miller
Simon Holla
Jan Jarmula
Gerald Yung
Jerry McLean
Chris Trenholme
Al Klieber
Al Title
Tom MacLachlan
CEDAR HILL CLAY COURT TENNIS SOCIETY
cedarhillclaytennis@gmail.com
Tournament Comments (56)
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Jason wrote: Posted: Feb 6th, 11:21 |
Clay is the best and like someone else said. It is addictive and better for your body. My 2 cents is it is better for your game.
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Dave Pentland wrote: Posted: Jan 24th, 13:47 |
As an avid tennis player and frequent knee surgey patient, clay courts are the way to go. MUCH easier on the body and with the aging population, west coast weather, it has always puzzled me why there was not more clay courts in BC. All the best with the plan and I hope you have an out of town membership level, as I will support this from the mainland in hopes of this spreading over here.
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Alvin Q. Trotter wrote: Posted: Jan 11th, 13:28 |
I'm up for the clay everyday. Growing up in Florida there's slipping, sliding, and fun all year! We need these courts in Victoria too! You have my support.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Jan 8th, 09:52 |
Unfortunately the fees listed are not for lifetime memberships. The initiation fee is one time only, and memberships are renewed annually. There are no additional fees for access to the courts and club activities.
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Ted Deng wrote: Posted: Jan 3rd, 00:43 |
Excited about being able to hit balls on red dirt. I have a few questions, are the membership and the initiation fees one time or annual? What will the members have access to? Do members pay other fees to play?
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Jan 3rd, 00:06 |
You are correct. There is no risk to anyone purchasing a pre-construction membership. These funds WILL NOT be used to build the facility, and will be refunded in full if the facility is not built. A detailed business plan will be available for investors before they invest, and that is separate from this process. The investor money is what will be used to build the club. We will not begin construction until we have sufficient funds to complete. The society will eventually have a debt to its investors, secured by its ability to operate a viable enterprise. Pre-construction membership sales go a long way to demonstrate that viability. Members of the club will not be members of the society, so they will never be at risk, before or after the club is built.
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J. Rankin wrote: Posted: Jan 2nd, 12:34 |
Before commencement of the project there appears to be minimal risk as funds are placed in Trust with the Lawyers. What about subsequent to that point - when the project commences? For example - during construction and when operating as a non-for-profit Society? What guarantees are there that there will be sufficient funds to complete the project? Will the Society have debt, if so how secured? Are the members of the Society exposed to putting in more funds if revenue does not met operating costs? Are financial projections available?
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Jan 2nd, 09:22 |
Our survey suggests that most players want lit clay courts built as soon as possible, and a clubhouse built after that when finances allow for it. The approximate capital cost of the first phase is one million dollars. Operating costs of a clay court facility of this nature will be over $200,000/year. Our research shows that we have investors willing to finance this project, and we will soon have a detailed financial plan ready for them. But we can't get to this stage until we confirm the support of the tennis community through pre-construction membership sales. We are optimists and hope we can be playing on clay late this season. It is impossible to predict a timeline, though, before we know the level of support we have.
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Penny Goldrick wrote: Posted: Jan 1st, 18:30 |
I fully support this amazing proposal. As has been pointed out it is much easier on one's body than hard courts and let's face it we are all growing older every minute! Also, clay courts are recommended over hard courts for junior development. In most cities in Canada, the US and Europe, clay courts are available, but not in Victoria. It is about time.
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Ross Petersi wrote: Posted: Jan 1st, 17:35 |
What is the estimated capital cost of the proposed facility and does it include a club house or do members just use the Cedar Hill rec. Centre ? What are the estimated annual operating costs. ? More financial information seems necessary before individuals decide on joining. When it is expected that construction would take place ?
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Karen Clarke wrote: Posted: Dec 24th 2011, 12:16 |
Typically, when Senior Outdoor Nationals are held in Toronto or Montreal, the court surface is clay. Having a clay court facility in Victoria would be an enormous benefit for Island players to train well in preparation for Nationals back East. A big thanks to the organizing committee for this exciting initiative.
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Daren Sevenko wrote: Posted: Dec 5th 2011, 12:08 |
As a pro tennis player, the only 2 doubles titles I won were on clay courts in europe. They are everywhere in europe. I will fully support this effort, even though I can't play the way I have before.
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Joel Hamm wrote: Posted: Dec 2nd 2011, 02:45 |
It is inspiring to me to envision a training ground like this for junior players in Victoria (not to mention the achy and aged). For all the reasons already mentioned below, its about time! Let's bring back the good 'ol days!
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Tom Van Cleave wrote: Posted: Dec 2nd 2011, 02:17 |
Before moving to Victoria I played at a clay court club in Chattanooga with somewhat colder , but shorter winters. About ten years ago the club began keeping the courts open all winter and quickly developed a die-hard cadre of chilly weather players. Anything above freezing was OK, with above 5 degrees being A-OK. Warning: clay courts are addictive!
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Ranjan McArthur wrote: Posted: Dec 2nd 2011, 01:24 |
Wow! Dirt ball tennis in Victoria!! I am so excited by the prospect. Players of all ages, even those relying on big serves, will benefit from playing on clay. Everyone's strokes and footwork should improve. Just imagine sliding, topspinning, slicing, dicing and having a "new" court freshly swept for play after each set. Think of all the arguments that will not arise due to ball marks. No pain - no pain. Hear, hear for clay!
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Jim Fields wrote: Posted: Dec 2nd 2011, 01:22 |
Are they done yet?
Seriously though, a fantastic idea for tennis players throughout Victoria. Sign me up for the advance pass!
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 29th 2011, 16:26 |
Our tentative plan is to have the courts available for play eight months per year, so they would not be open in the winter. Because we are building new, we will construct the best drainage system possible. Play will be possible during light rain and fairly soon after heavier rain, so clay courts will be available many more hours per year compared to hard courts. Yes, they are expensive to maintain. But we believe the benefits of playing on clay are worth the cost.
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Charles and Vera Coley wrote: Posted: Nov 27th 2011, 15:00 |
Wonderful idea. From childhood we only played on clay in Scotland until coming to Canada in our mid-thirties. As a result, we are still able to enjoy tennis in our old age! Only problem is clay is usually unplayable during the winter months - unless there is now a better method of draining the courts. Also, they are very expensive to maintain.
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Bill Code wrote: Posted: Nov 27th 2011, 08:25 |
Rogerio -- When I meet you in a match on hard courts it already typically takes THREE AND HALF HOURS!!! On clay?? Maybe it will be 5 HOURS +++!!! ...Hey, I support this initiative and look forward to our next 5-hour match! :)
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Gaye Stone wrote: Posted: Nov 27th 2011, 05:48 |
Having spent a great deal of my tennis playing life on Hartru courts, I totally support this initiative. Not only will the surface contribute to the preparation of our younger players for the national circuit , but more importantly, the surface is much easier on the joints for the more senior players. It will enable players to enjoy their passion well into their golden years!
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Thelma Legge wrote: Posted: Nov 27th 2011, 01:17 |
Congratulations ! I believe Tennis players in the Victoria area will benefit tremendously having a Clay Court facility at Cedarhill Rec Center. As an older person, I believe I will be able to play longer if I am able to play on clay as opposed to a hard court. I would certainly hope to play on these courts once they're installed.
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Graham Maddock wrote: Posted: Nov 26th 2011, 02:17 |
We played on clay in Toronto and our knees have suffered ever since we moved to Victoria.
We support the initiative.
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claire kane wrote: Posted: Nov 25th 2011, 14:10 |
Congratulations on the advance work.
Tom and I definitely support the proposal, and would join.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 25th 2011, 14:03 |
We've received a couple of questions regarding pickle ball. Our experience is that tennis players prefer only to have tennis lines on the courts, and we also could not have pickle ball lines present for serious tournaments. But one solution I have just thought of is for pickle ball players to purchase the temporary lines that are now commonly used to reduce the court size when young juniors play. They are inexpensive, and could quickly and easily temporarily create a pickle ball court.
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Scott Farquhar wrote: Posted: Nov 25th 2011, 13:15 |
Victoria really needs a private tennis club of the sort you are proposing. In the '70's and '80's the Racquet Club was a great place for juniors to hone their skills and hang out in a postive environment. I definitely support the proposal.
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frank Finney wrote: Posted: Nov 24th 2011, 12:19 |
Clay courts are a real attraction for many Victoria tennis players AND tourist visitors. Go to it. I suggest starting with 4 courts and building towards eight-build it and they will come.
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A. Mader wrote: Posted: Nov 24th 2011, 02:52 |
Well worth the investment. I have been waiting for this so you have my full support and I will help in any way I can to make it happen. A clubhouse will be a great incentive for those of us who don't golf or sail.
In Florida, where most courts are clay people, play longer and to a ripe old age. Possible added benefit for overstretched healthcare system - fewer joint surgeries.
It's all good!
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Len Taal wrote: Posted: Nov 23rd 2011, 22:54 |
Wonderful news, especially for seniors who wish to be active. As a promoter for Pickleball, any plans to double line a court for our sport?
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Evelyn Cobley wrote: Posted: Nov 23rd 2011, 20:36 |
What a great idea! I fully support the proposal of building 8 clay courts at Cedar Hill. This proposed facility would serve both our juniors and our seniors in the community. Please push hard to make this come true!
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Bob Turner wrote: Posted: Nov 23rd 2011, 18:41 |
I see major benefits from 8 new clay courts, specifically the ability to attract top level talent for bigger tournaments and the fact that clay is easier on the body. Both of these facts augur well to grow the sport in Victoria.
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Rodion Sotskov wrote: Posted: Nov 23rd 2011, 15:36 |
Excellent idea guys. This will be especially appreciated by the older players and players with knee/ankle joint problems.
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Tony Weir wrote: Posted: Nov 22nd 2011, 09:21 |
I am waiting for knee surgery and while I can still play tennis it is very painful afterwards. I have just returned from Palm Desert where I was able to play on clay. I played for longer periods of time without the accompanying pain during and afterwards. You have my full support.
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Donna Jones wrote: Posted: Nov 22nd 2011, 01:32 |
Clay courts would be fantastic. Also love the idea of community and club-like atmosphere. Great leadership on this. We played on clay at our home club VLTBC and would love to have clay courts in Saanich. We would definitely buy a membership.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 22nd 2011, 00:45 |
While we certainly agree that Victoria needs more indoor courts, this project is not designed to address that situation. We've outlined why we want to build 8 outdoor courts, and we hope we will have the support of the tennis community to accomplish that goal in a relatively short time frame.
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Greg Abbott wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 23:52 |
Clay courts are a great idea. I'm sure that eight is an excellent number for tournament and summer activity. However, was a four court, covered facitily ever considered in lieu of?
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Greg Diemer wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 17:59 |
Part 2
Moreover, the vast majority of pros are clay-court trained first. Clay court tennis develops a sense of point construction, patience and variety that hardcourt tennis cannot. Needless to say I am a big proponent of having the clay courts at Cedar Hill Recreation.
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Greg Diemer wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 17:50 |
Part 1
After the Racquet club was closed to the public, junior tennis in Victoria has been on a sharp decline. Kids need a place to "hang out" and hit a million balls. A new clay court facility will be essential in providing this "club" for our youth.
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John Nash wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 17:08 |
A worthwhile project especially for a regional facility.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 15:45 |
7) Covered courts are very expensive and not now in our plans, but our plans would allow for the possibility of some covered courts in the future.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 15:41 |
6) There is only room on this site to build a maximum of 8 courts, so we will not be able to create additional hard, synthetic or grass courts.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 15:37 |
5) We will probably establish a reduced rate for out-of-town players.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 15:34 |
4) Clay courts are expensive to maintain. And while there will most likely be limited court time available on an hourly-rental basis, this project will only be able to go forward with the support of players purchasing annual passes.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 15:28 |
3) Like any facility of this nature, it will most likely be the site of a limited number of open tournaments or exhibition matches. But for the overwhelming majority of the time, courts would be available for players who have purchased annual passes.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 15:23 |
2) There are formulas that tennis clubs use to ensure there is a proper membership/court ratio. Our projections are that we will be far under the recommended capacity.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 15:19 |
1) Access to the courts will most likely be structured so a certain number of courts will be available through advanced booking and a certain number will be set aside for drop in/pick up. We recognize that some people need certainty in their schedule and others like picking up a game or being able to show up without advance planning.
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MODERATOR - JOHN MILLER wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 15:11 |
Thanks to everyone who filled out the survey. The early response looks very promising. Although we have not worked out precise details of how this facility would operate, in the next few posts I'll provide some additional information that might be helpful.
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Fred Peters wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 13:41 |
Clay courts in Saanich would be a terrific asset for the community as well as for current tennis players. A great way to get youth involved in a healthy international sport that won't involve concussions. (x-hockey player comment). A wonderful idea.
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Rob Jones wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 05:22 |
This is a fantastic idea that help to elevate Victoria into a greater level that will continue to highlight the already excellent sports culture that is present in our great city.
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Johane Mui wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 00:54 |
I fully support the proposal. Having an eight clay court facility would bring even more revenue and events to Saanich .
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Scott Bezeau wrote: Posted: Nov 21st 2011, 00:46 |
Great idea guys. As you note, clay is easier on the body and should enable many people to play more frequently than they can on hard courts. A clubhouse would be a terrific addition too.
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Shawn Lusignan wrote: Posted: Nov 20th 2011, 23:59 |
Having a dedicated tennis facility, and especially on clay, would be an incredible opportunity for Victoria. I sincerley hope all tennis players support this project. We may not get another chance.
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Karen Taber wrote: Posted: Nov 20th 2011, 23:49 |
It's time the Island was brought into the 21st Century. The number and quality of tennis players here demands better tennis facilities! This is an ideal location, perfect timing and an opportunity to have some quality courts in a club type atmosphere. We all need these courts!
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Rogerio Graca wrote: Posted: Nov 20th 2011, 21:46 |
The fact that there is no clay courts in Victoria should contribute to the success of this project. Who has never played in clay court would get addicted to it. I do believe the place would be busy enough to justify such an endeavor.
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Petra Janusas wrote: Posted: Nov 20th 2011, 21:46 |
I am currently in Rancho Mirage CA, and have been playing tennis every day on clay courts....Loving every moment!
Yes; I am definitely in favour of clay courts in Saanich!
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Justin Jay wrote: Posted: Nov 20th 2011, 20:50 |
Yes this is a great idea for the future of tennis in victoria. Tennis can really be a sport for young and old and we need top quality facilities.
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RICARDO WIELAND wrote: Posted: Nov 20th 2011, 20:20 |
I totally agree there is dire need for more tennis clay courts, it's a great initiative to establish a clay court facility.
You have all my support
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