Tennis Aberdeen member Murray Smith recently celebrated his 90^th birthday with a game at Aberdeen Tennis Centre, having been a keen player for more than seven decades.

We got the chance to have a chat with him and ask him a few questions about playing tennis.

Q. How old were you when you first started playing tennis?

I started playing when I was about 14 or 15 years old, this was around 1947 – not long after the Second World War. All the courts were closed during the war, so this was the first time they had reopened.

I started playing at Westburn, these were outdoor grass courts at the time and used to be called the Argyle courts. I also played with Jimmy Wood back in the day, I didn’t know it at the time, but he went on to be one of the best Scottish players. Jimmy also coached at Westburn around 15 years ago.

Q. How long have you been playing at Aberdeen Tennis Centre?

I became a member at the Aberdeen Tennis Centre about 15 to 20 years ago. Prior to that, I used to play at the Rubislaw outdoor courts, and I played in the Rubislaw Tennis Club team for a while.

Q. What do you enjoy most about the sport?

I enjoy the social aspect and the comfort of playing indoors in the winter. I’ve developed good friendships with the staff at the centre too, which makes coming to play that bit more enjoyable. I really enjoy the camaraderie that comes along with the group sport!

Q. How did you celebrate your 90^th birthday?

I played a game of tennis on my 90^th birthday. Alison, another member at Aberdeen Tennis Centre, baked a cake for me to celebrate which was lovely!

Q. Do you have a set weekly schedule for when you play?

Yes, I usually play twice a week on Monday and Thursday mornings. I always play in a group of four or eight people and I prefer to play indoors during the winter months.

Q. What would your advice be for a younger individual looking to get into the sport?

I would emphasise all the benefits of playing. As well as being good for your health and keeping fit, tennis is great for socialising and making new friends. And most importantly, you should always remember to have fun and enjoy yourself!

Q. What are the benefits to you of regularly playing at Aberdeen Tennis Centre?

It keeps me active and healthy, and of course it makes me happy seeing everyone having fun whilst playing. As I mentioned above, the social aspect is enjoyable too.

If Murray’s passion for tennis has inspired you, then why not head down to our courts and serve up your best shot! For further information and to book your court, visit https://www.sportaberdeen.co.uk/venues/aberdeen-tennis-centre