Ralston Back on Court Teaching

Written by: Staff on 4th January 2012

Ralston Back on Court Teaching |

The Orthotic and Prosthetic Technologies Adaptive Clinic held at the Circle C Tennis Club, Austin, Texas recently was a resounding success. Over 15 players with prosthetic aids and four players in wheelchairs had an opportunity to play tennis with Circle C Pro-Emeritus, Dennis Ralston, and general manager and director of tennis, Fernando Velasco. The players ranged in age from 7 years old to 75 years plus.

This is the third consecutive year that Circle C Tennis Club has hosted this special clinic, with the goal that players with special needs become acquainted with the “game of a lifetime.” The event was sponsored by Aaron Foreman, owner of the Orthotic and Prosthetic Technologies of Austin.

Circle C resident, Mike Haynes, who is an expert at playing Wheelchair Tennis tournaments all over the United States, was happy to share his experiences and skills with the rest of the players and the coaches. Also, coach Ralston, a former US Open and Wimbledon Champion, had some excellent advice for all of the players on how to adjust to playing with their new challenges in life. He lost part of his leg a year and a half ago after having surgery. Now he is back on the court at the Circle C Tennis Club teaching and coaching players of all levels and abilities.

As a result of the successful turnout, the Club is offering on Saturdays, a clinic for wheelchair players at 10:00 am, and at 11:00 am, a clinic for players with prosthetic aids. Both of these clinics are free of charge and are taught by both Ralston and Velasco.