Platform tennis, or paddle, is one of the fastest growing sports in the Midwest. Tennaqua's extensive instructional, social, and competitive paddle programs provide members with a unique and stimulating fall and winter experience.

Tennaqua has recently built four new paddle courts and is in the process of constructing a new paddle hut where spectators can warm up between sets and members may cozy up to the fireplace during winter socials and parties. With a season twice the length of the tennis season, members have discovered how enjoyable winter can be out on the paddle courts.

The rules and scoring in paddle are similar to tennis. Played on a court one-third the size of a tennis court, and with the addition of surrounding wire screens, the ball is kept in play with lobs, volleys and the occasional drive. The courts are positioned on raised platforms, and made of rough-surfaced metal planks with heaters installed underneath to melt the ice, or dry the rain during play. Don't expect those heaters to warm your bones; the fast moving activity needed to play will keep you toasty enough. The paddle season runs from October into April.