To coincide with an open day, Howe Park unveiled its Hotshots courts for the first time, a project which cost more than $60,000.

Successful grants were received from the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnerships program ($20,000), Tennis Australia ($10,000) and the Singleton Sports Council ($10,000) to allow the development to come to fruition.

Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen was also on hand to officially open the facility, along with representatives from the Rotary Club of Singleton on Hunter and members from Howe Park.

“It’s a great thing for the club,” head coach Gary Brenton said.

“And, will get kids involved in the sport.

“The two three-quarter courts, and hitting wall, as well as the Hotshots modifications, give the youngsters more confidence.

“They play with lower nets, bigger balls and smaller racquets, so they enjoy success very quickly.”

Brenton said Howe Park boasted 150 children in the Hotshots program and a further 200 juniors.

But, he’s hoping those figures enjoy a boost in the near future.

“Numbers are a bit down,” he admitted.

“That’s probably because there is so much competition with other sports [these days].

“We have a good core of talented juniors at Howe Park, however Hotshots is a strong lead-in.

“Implementing the Tennis Australia program, and the corresponding modifications, is a terrific way to introduce children to the sport.

“It’ll [the courts] be a valuable asset to the club.”