How Hamptons Players and Clubs Protect Courts Through Winter

As winter settles on the East End, proactive court care will save time and money when spring arrives. Har Tru and hard courts require different approaches, but the message is the same. Clear drains, prevent compaction, protect hardware, and maintain movement patterns for players who will return to heavy weekend play.

Protect surfaces by matching the method to the condition. For light snowfall, push snow off courts with a soft bladed snow broom. For heavy packed snow, wait for a thaw before removal when possible or use a plastic shovel. Avoid metal blades and scraping on Har Tru to prevent surface damage. After clearing, run a mesh court drag to relevel the material and redistribute clay. Inspect perimeter drains and remove leaves and sand buildup, because ponding near fences indicates a regrading job may be needed in spring.

Freeze and thaw cycles cause compaction and surface irregularities. Keep runoff away from court edges and ensure drains are clear. Where available, keep windscreens and covers in place to reduce drifting and moisture intrusion. For courts with seasonal bubbles, inspect seams, replace worn gaskets, and keep inflation pressure slightly higher in cold weather to avoid sagging. For uncovered courts, consider low profile covers over the net center to limit drifting.

Har Tru courts need special attention. Avoid heavy machinery when freezing conditions are present. When warm spells occur, lightly drag and water to recondition. At early spring reopening, rake, drag, roll lightly, top dress with fresh Har Tru where low spots appear, and reline. For hard courts, clear snow promptly but avoid salt or deicers near surfaces because they damage paint and cracks. Inspect for hairline cracks caused by freeze stress and seal them early in spring to prevent widening.

Protect equipment and hardware now. Bring ball machines, baskets, and electronic devices indoors. Lubricate gate hinges and court hardware with a water resistant lubricant. For private courts, winterize lighting, secure nets at low tension to reduce wind load or remove and store nets, and bring court furniture inside.

Players can preserve timing and reduce injury risk with short, focused work. Cross train with ladder and cone footwork, resistance band shoulder work, and 20 to 30 minute daily ball tracking drills to maintain eye hand coordination. Use a wall for 10 to 15 minute rebound drills, and practice doorway shadow serves focusing on toss and pronation. Coaches and program directors can offer small group indoor transition clinics on movement, serve mechanics, and return patterns, and schedule open court spring tune ups the week courts reopen.

Plan a late February inspection and a spring tune up in early March when conditions permit. A proactive winter routine extends court life, reduces spring repair bills, and keeps local programs running smoothly for weekend players and second home owners returning to the Hamptons. Essential items to have on hand include a soft bladed snow broom, plastic shovels, mesh court drags, Har Tru top dressing, water resistant lubricants, and a winter storage plan for equipment.