chapelhillnews.com | Sports readers write

Published: Jan 26, 2013 04:00 PM
Modified: Jan 25, 2013 04:45 PM

YMCA should reconsider its renovation planIt has come to my attention that the YMCA is considering destroying its racquetball courts in order to enlarge its fitness center. This would not appear to be in the best interests of the community ? and therefore of the Y. If, as I understand, the courts have many, dedicated users who depend on them for a variety of activities in addition to racquetball, removing them would be an expensive disservice ? costly to the Y (in real money, as well as in loss of members) and to the community in general. Where else can one find racquetball courts?On the other hand, to add more fitness equipment in that space would contribute nothing to the Chapel Hill community and surrounding areas, since there is an abundance of health clubs of various kinds. We don?t need more.My husband and I very much hope that the Y will reconsider its options, and recognize the importance of keeping the racquetball courts.Carol George Chapel HillYMCA racquetball ?very important? for PTThe courts at the YMCA are more than a workout to us senior players. It provides structure and purpose in our lives. The workout we get is also great as continuing PT [physical therapy] for us cardio survivors and those of us with hip and knee replacements. The Y is an asset to all of us in Chapel Hill and, as the only public courts in Orange County, they are very important to those of us who represent Orange County in the State Senior Games and the National Senior Games. Where will we practice without the Y courts?Louis Weinstein Chapel HillPeople would miss the racquetball courtsIt would be a shame to tear down the only racquetball courts in Orange County. The senior citizens I know who enjoy them will miss them very much and for some, racquetball is their primary source of exercise and the reason they joined the YMCA, as opposed to other exercise facilities in the area. Please consider keeping at least one of the courts for their use.Toby Beckman Chapel HillSome purposely sought out YMCA?s courtsRegarding the elimination of the racquetball courts at the Chapel Hill YMCA, I am relocating from Chicago to the RDU area for retirement. I have joined the YMCA Chapel Hill primarily for the racquetball courts. We also utilize the other facilities offered.If they are eliminated, my wife, daughter, grandchildren and I will go elsewhere. This decision will also make me consider another community to locate in.Ed Murzinski Saint Charles, Ill.Removing the courts would be unbelievableI could not believe when I heard they were planning on tearing down the racquetball courts for more exercise equipment. I am amazed how many play racquetball considering the management puts no effort at all into marketing racquetball. Imagine how many would do aerobics without instructors or work out without trainers? Imagine how many would use the pool or basketball courts without programming? Just think if the management treated racquetball the same way they treat the other activities, how many more would enjoy this amazing sport?I know many people who joined the YMCA for only racquetball and I am one of them. None of us that that I know play racquetball were asked our opinion on their survey.I would be more than happy to give lessons to any of the management who would like to experience the benefits of this remarkable sport.Mary Dee Kirchoff 1984 Racquetball World Champion MebaneThe CHN welcomes readers? comments. Email them to chnsports@nando.com, and please include your name, town and a daytime telephone number.

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Source: http://www.chapelhillnews.com/2013/01/26/74762/sports-readers-write.html

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