You Can Do It! Learn to Play Like a Pro (or At Least Aspire to It)

Jan 27, 2022 02:06PM ● By ANN MARIE O’PHELAN

Southwest Florida is an athlete’s paradise. There is no lack of activities to be enjoyed year-round here. Consider three of the area’s most popular activities—swimming, tennis, and golf—all of which you can improve by taking lessons.

On Sanibel, golfers and tennis players can find help at The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club. On the golf side, the club pros offer instruction for players of all levels, from beginners to juniors to advanced players, says Brian Kautz, PGA professional and general manager. Instruction can be arranged, generally seven days a week, by either stopping in or calling to schedule a time. Junior golf and tennis camps are held in the summer. Also on hand is three-time PGA Tour winner Nolan Henke, who is available for instruction for players of all skill levels.

On the Har-Tru tennis courts at the Dunes, players from beginner to touring professional can find the instruction they need. “Our weekly programming includes social round robins and instructional clinics for all levels,” says Nick Blackwood, the founder of Blackwood Sports Management, which oversees tennis operations at the Dunes.

Tennis instruction is also available at Beachview Tennis Club, which has five Har-Tru courts, and Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, which has six Har-Tru courts. Sanibel Island Golf Club offers public tee times at its 18-hole course mid-island.

Swimmers can take lessons at the Sanibel Recreation Center. “We are offering swim lessons as one-to-one sessions,” says aquatic manager Steve Vela. People can set these up by calling the rec center or emailing [email protected]. Lap swim times are also available. The rec center also has four tennis courts, though no organized lessons are currently offered.

Ann Marie O’Phelan is a Southwest Florida resident and a regular contributor to TOTI Media.