While I consider the ability to travel a great blessing, I have to admit that certain complications typically ensue as a result of being away from home. One of those challenges can be how to continue your workout routine when on the road (especially as a tennis player). While I don’t have specific recommendations for how to alleviate this situation in all cities, I can provide some assistance when it comes to Chicago, Illinois.
Are you looking to play some tennis while visiting Chicago in January even when the windchill is -15 degrees and the courts look like this? Well the McFetridge Sports Center offers year-round opportunities to play on their 6 indoor courts. If you’re traveling with a hitting partner their online court reservation system is relatively easy to navigate. If you’re not, private lessons, clinics, and multiple ball machines are all available to you. If you’d like a chance to “mix it up” with some of the locals while playing some Mixed Doubles, then consider reaching out to my new friend Sheila Spade. She can be reached at sheilaspade@gmail.com and if you give her about a week’s notice she may be able to get you connected with the group that she organizes. I found every person in her group to be welcoming and enjoyable to play with!
All of the costs associated with your choice of play here are reasonable and a traditional membership at this facility is not required.
The courts are well maintained and the facility is only about a 15 minute drive from most downtown hotels. While I found the staff here to be mostly disinterested in the concept of “customer service”, if you can limit your interactions with them you should be fine.
And that’s…Henry’s Take.
McFetridge Sports Center
3843 North California Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 478-2609
