Social Drop-In Coming to Springfield

If you’re searching for an enjoyable indoor activity to shake off the winter blues (and perhaps some rust from your tennis game), check out the upcoming drop-in social event hosted by USTA Missouri.

This fun evening of tennis will take place Friday, Feb. 19 at the Cooper Tennis Complex (2331 E. Pythian St.) in Springfield. The event will run from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Cost to participate is $10 (cash or check only).

Jean Larrick, who has taught tennis at the Cooper Complex for better than 20 years, will lead the on-court action. Participants will play the popular game of 21 before being split into foursomes for doubles. Players of all skill levels are welcome to join.

Heidi Smith, executive director of USTA Missouri, has participated in previous social drop-in events and said they are a wonderful time. Smith said the average attendance has been about 12 people and the laughs have been plentiful.

“We have so much fun,” Smith said. “We get all different kinds of people each time we run an event. It’s usually people who don’t necessarily play USTA. It gives them something fun to do. It keeps USTA kind of present through the winter — we are still doing activities. It gives me a chance to meet people. It’s a lot of fun, and it’s always different each time.”

Interested individuals can sign up for the social drop-in event by emailing Smith at hsmotennis@gmail.com. Registering in advance is not required and there isn’t a deadline date for registration. Walk-ins the night of Feb. 19 are welcome. When participants pay to get in, they will be entered into a drawing to win a small prize.