Beach tennis surges in Kelowna as locals prepare for Canada’s first national tournament in Toronto this August. A fun, fast-growing sport in the sun.
Kelowna Embraces a Sport Made for the Sand
On the sun-drenched courts of Boyce-Gyro Beach in Kelowna, a new sport is drawing attention—and players. Beach tennis, a hybrid of tennis, volleyball, and badminton, has surged in popularity in British Columbia. What began in Italy in the 1970s is now becoming a summer staple in Canada.
Introducing Canadians to a Global Game
Fernanda Romancini, co-founder of Beach Tennis Okanagan and former professional player in Brazil, introduced the sport to Canada in 2017. Initially based in Toronto, she brought the sport westward when she relocated to Kelowna. Since then, beach tennis has grown from a curiosity to a community fixture
Sand, Speed, and Simplicity Drive the Appeal
Played in teams of two with paddle-like rackets and depressurized tennis balls, beach tennis uses a tennis-style scoring system, but the ball is volleyed without touching the ground—making it fast-paced and dynamic. Courts mirror volleyball dimensions, and the soft sand surface makes it low-impact and accessible to all ages.
“It’s fast-paced, and anyone can play—even if you’ve never picked up a tennis racket,” said Romancini.
Canada Prepares for Its First National Championship
In a milestone for the sport, Toronto will host Canada’s first-ever Beach Tennis National Championship in August 2025, along with the internationally sanctioned Toronto Cup. Romancini calls it “a huge step” for beach tennis in Canada, especially as the sport eyes a possible inclusion in the 2032 Olympics.
Community Classes Open This August
Locals interested in trying beach tennis can register for weekly sessions through the City of Kelowna. The four-session program, starting August 6, runs every Wednesday from 6–8 p.m. at the Gyro Beach sand courts. The $28 fee includes equipment and instruction.
“We provide everything you need—just show up and enjoy the game,” Romancini said, inviting residents to join in the growing movement.
Registration Link:
kelowna.ca/parks-recreation/programs-registration/beach-tennis-register-play-wednesday-600-pm-aug-6-aug-27
Note: This article is original and written specifically for SurreySpeak.com
