By Thomas Smith
The Dorset Recreation Centre re-opened in September last year. The newly renovated rec center houses a full gymnasium, squash court, fitness room, kitchen and meeting areas, as well as the Dorset branch of the Haliburton County Public Library.
“There are many programs offered at the Recreation Centre, including Yoga, Zumba, Toning Class, VON SMART program. There’s also free wi-fi, a community computer and printing, drop-in basketball, pickleball and much more,” said Sandra Rogers, recreation coordinator. “The DRC is the only facility of its kind in the area, so on top of the recreational opportunities it provides, it also fulfills a social function. It’s a place where people from the community run into one another and catch up.”
The Dorset Recreation Centre is advertising for people to “squash their winter blues” through playing squash at their indoor squash courts.
“Players often play with friends or colleagues and this allows for some great social camaraderie and friendly competition,” said Rogers. “The sport demands constant movement with quick reactions which provides a full body workout.”
The indoor squash courts provide the perfect opportunity for people to remain active throughout the winter, regardless of the weather. For people that have never played before, the rec centre also lets visitors borrow racquets and balls for anyone wanting to try their hand at the game.
Squash was first played in the mid-nineteenth century at Harrow School in England. The first squash court built in what is now modern-day Canada was at the St. John’s Tennis Club in Newfoundland. Today, more than 400,000 players play squash recreationally and competitively.
Rogers reports that the squash court in the newly renovated rec centre continues to be well used with both returning players and new p-layers to the sport.
For anyone interested in trying the game, the squash courts are available to reserve online for a minimum of one hour to a maximum time slot of two hours per day. There are no charges to reserve your spot, and it is free for members to use. Day passes can also be purchased for use. The squash court is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
