As different parts of the country start to reopen and allow for tennis playing again, we must stay safe and maintain appropriate social distancing measures due to covid-19. The USTA has prepared specific guidelines for how we can play tennis safely during the coronavirus pandemic. Tennis is a great way to relieve stress, socialize with others, exercise your body and remain safe. In fact, it was voted as the safest sport to do during the coronavirus by many doctors. Because tennis does not require any direct person-to-person contact, we can enjoy the many physical and mental benefits. We've summarized the USTA's guidelines below. For specific safety tips head over to USTA.com:

Before Play

• Make sure your state or region is allowing tennis play.
• Arrange to play only with family members or others who live in your household or with individuals who are considered to be low risk.
• Do not play if you are exhibiting any symptoms of the coronavirus or have been in contact with someone with COVID-19.
• Do not play if you have any underlying health conditions.
• Pack a change of clothes.

During Play

• Wash your hands with soap and water (20 seconds or longer) or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Clean and wipe down your tennis equipment.
• Do not share any tennis equipment with others.
• Use new balls and a new grip every time you play. Limit the amount of tennis balls you use (3-6 balls preferred).
• Avoid touching permanent fixtures on the court (gates, fences, nets, benches, etc.).
• Stay at least 6 feet away from other players.
• Ideally only play singles.
• Avoid touching your face after handling equipment.
• Avoid using your hands to pick up tennis balls. Use racquet and foot to pick up balls or hit to your opponent.

After Play

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after leaving the court.
• Shower at home, do not use public facilities.
• Change clothes either in car or immediately at home. Try not to put dirty tennis clothes with other dirty clothes.