Social Thursday night tennis in Whakatāne is changing from this week, now offering opportunities for singles and beginners to get out for a mid-week hit.

Whakatāne Tennis Club’s twilight tennis season kicks off again tomorrow from 5.30pm at the courts near Rex Morpeth Park.

The earlier start time will allow players to head along straight from work, rather than risking getting sucked into the comfort of their couch as the end of the work week looms near.

Thursday tennis has traditionally been played as doubles games with randomly matched partners.

Committee member Kay Montgomery said the new format will continue the doubles games, but it will also allow two courts for singles matches, and one court for primarily new beginners.

“If they don’t know the rules or they’ve never hit a ball before, we’re going to have one court for them and someone alongside them to teach them the rules and awhi them along.”

Rackets will be available upon request for those without the gear at home.

Montgomery hoped the twilight sessions will be a welcoming place for new players to head along for a hit with the guidance of Jacqueline Mahy, while also encouraging those more experienced to get involved in the evening. She acknowledges the commitment of former Thursday tennis organiser Marlene Dor.

The twilight format was all about fitness, fun and friendships, Montgomery said, while offering something different to the club’s standard Wednesday morning and Saturday afternoon sessions.

A competition aspect will also be introduced, where winners will play winners and losers will play losers until the end of the evening at about 8.30pm.

For those new to the game, Montgomery said it was important to wear flat shoes with a soft sole.

Twilight tennis is free for current club members and $10 per session for non-members. Concession cards are available at $35 for four sessions.