Just when you thought the beach couldn’t get more fun, another sport comes along that mixes sand with competition.
The relatively-new sport of beach tennis hasn’t even been around for more than a decade, but it continues to grow and gain traction as a mainstream sport.
Bringing together elements of volleyball, badminton and of course, tennis, the game appeals to a wide range of athletes, as well as anyone who wants another activity on the beach.
It’s no wonder then that beach tennis’ popularity is on the rise in the UAE, where good weather and sandy shores aren’t in short supply.
Beach Tennis UAE is attempting to further raise the sport’s profile in the region with practice sessions and tournaments.
Beach Tennis UAE hold tournaments called “Smack Down” approximately every six weeks at Saadiyat Public Beach.
The tournaments feature categories for juniors, men, men’s pro and mixed doubles, with a variety of prizes for the winners.
The final tournament of the season, Smack Down 10, just concluded earlier this month, but competition will return at the start of October and again run until May.
In the meantime, Beach Tennis UAE will still hold their bi-weekly practices, also at Saadiyat Public Beach. Whether you want to take it up as just a hobby or play competitively, the sessions are designed for everyone.
While beach tennis has come a long way, founder Mowafak Al Amin hopes the sport can reach new heights in the UAE by gaining the support of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and hosting an international tournament this coming December or January.
Al Amin said: “A 100 per cent beach tennis is going to go to the Olympics level, because what’s the difference between this and volleyball on the beach? It’s the same concept.”
Contact & info: For more information, visit www.facebook.com/beachtennisuae
