Albert Gilbert Tennis Center

While visiting from Chicago to welcome the arrival of our new granddaughter, my parter and I investigated the Gilbert Tennis Club at the West Hollywood JCC and found a bevy of highly –rated instructors, many from Europe and Asia. We bought a ten-​lesson package and found Fovad, a former head coach of the Iranian University table tennis team, who was instructing two gifted children, under twelve, whom I am quite sure will be vying for the national championships soon. Watching the sport on TV at the Olympics gave us grand hopes for greatness, especially as we were old –hand tennis players. Alas, it doesn’t really translate. Nonetheless, after twelve lessons, Fovad gave us the basics. With more practice, we return to Chicago in hopes of continued proficiency.
The Gilbert center is located in the JCC which is convenient to W Hollywood with free parking. The Center has two levels; the lower level is air conditioned, which is helpful if you really work at the game. The price seemed reasonable and can be shared with another person to make it only $ 30/​per half hour. They have discounts for packages. The hours are 4−10p M-​Sat. But we played every day at 11:00 so times maybe flexible, especially with instructors.
Lucy Nicholson wrote a blog on the center and the work they are doing with Alzheimer and dementia patients. I hope ping pong will keep my brain and body sharp, while having a fun time. Check it out
Fovad said that children have to start around 6 or 7 if they want to be professionals. If you have a prospective child star; here’s your opportunity.