At exactly 8:30 a.m. every morning, Monday through Friday, you can be a "Dumbhead."

Don’t worry, you won’t be alone. Many members of Coral Oaks Tennis Club in Pinecrest have willingly admitted they are Dumbheads too.

Ironically, these self-proclaimed Dumbheads came up with a rather smart idea more than 30 years ago. They formed a tennis group, open to all members of the club, which meets every morning of the week — a constant in a sport that is sometimes hard to coordinate.

"You can count on it. There’s a game every single day at the same time. You don’t have to worry about searching for three other players. You don’t have to worry about cancellations. You don’t even have to worry about making reservations," said Richard Morton, part owner of the club and a long-time Dumbhead. "If you want to show up, you know there will be a game for you. If you don’t, there’s no loss and you haven’t let anyone down."

Morton said the name Dumbhead does not describe a particular character flaw of any of the players, but rather represents the term often placed on oneself when "you miss that easy shot." Although many may silently (or not so silently) use a much harsher word to reprimand themselves or a teammate, let’s not forget this is a family club, made up mostly of family memberships.

The group is open to men and women of any age and any level and is not "viciously competitive," according to Jeff Allen, tennis director and part owner of the club.

"The great thing about the group is that it is also fun and social. Everybody is treated like family, whether you’re a new member or have regularly attended the games since the group started in the early ’60s," Allen said. "We even have an original member, now in his 80s, who brings his daughter-in-law and 30-year-old grandson. It’s a very close group."

The Dumbheads have been so successful, several members travel from Broward and Palm Beach County to participate. The friendly, non-competitive atmosphere, combined with the obvious flexibility and convenience, make the group unique to the area. Sometimes the players will even make up crazy rules to add a little spice to the game.

Since the group is well established, there are never fewer than eight players on any given day and usually no more than 20. Although the age range generally is between 40 and 80 years old, Morton stressed that all ages are encouraged and welcome to join.

"And let’s not forget the fact that this is a healthy activity, especially for the older members," Morton added. "Remember those who remain active physically, remain active mentally."

Coral Oaks Tennis Club is located at 10530 SW 57 Ave. For more information on the Dumbheads and/or other programs, call 305-661-0092.

See Next Story