Bevie Walker, WNC USTA Local League Coordinator and Carol Rosner, Henderson County CTA Volunteer, are back for a  third year of the Mountain LeagueCTA (coordinator CTA) and Henderson County CTA’s Winter Indoor Tennis at the Henderson County Parks & Recreation Athletic Center Gym.  This program evolved from “Masters Tennis” (using “quickstart” junior tennis racquets and balls) into “Fireball Tennis” (using adult racquets and low compression balls).  The traditional tennis court is 78 feet and the Fireball court is 60 feet in length. The Fireball dimensions are slightly altered to allow play on the existing lines of the gymnasium floor so there are two tennis courts in the gym.   Fireball dimensions for doubles play are width of the singles lines on a traditional court.  We are using orange/yellow low compression balls so the ball does not “fly” on the lacquered gym floor.  The orange/yellow ball may also be used outside for Fireball.  This allows players to enjoy the game more since the ball does not fly as quickly or bounce as high as a normal tennis ball.  The program includes a Friday morning league of 8 doubles teams (16 players) competing for 8 weeks for the Indoor Championship (competitors pictured).  Fireball tennis is a great way to improve and grow your tennis game!  A bit less court to run on and lots of volleys and quick action.  Everyone who has tried the new format says “It’s real tennis, just a bit smaller court!”.   Proceeds from this league were donated to the Henderson County Parks & Recreation and Henderson County Community Tennis Association.  The Winter Indoor Program also offers a “Drop-In Play and Beginner Tennis” on Tuesdays from 12 noon until 2 pm.  New players and players returning to the game are encouraged to come out and try the game at no charge.  Racquets and balls are supplied.  The programs run thru the first week of March 2017.