In a letter to the editor yesterday in the Erie Times-News, a 72-year-old man wrote a great letter. James Ligons of Erie wrote that high school athletes should learn to play tennis because of the hand and eye coordination, footwork and endurance.

As a tennis player, I endorse that!  He added another note about men playing tennis in their 80s and 90s. Very true — I play with them, and they can kick your butt any day of the week!

There was a time when I was going to give up tennis because of my bad runner’s knees. Then I played with these guys. And gals. You’ll never quit if you see these folks in action.

If you want to take up the game, visit Westwood Racquet Club or Pennbriar Athletic Club.  They can hook you and your kids up with a lesson just to see if you like it. My kids have played since they were little. They never played competitively like I did, but they all acknowledge that it improves balance in nearly every sport.

And this week, you can tune into Wimbledon where you’ll see some professional tennis action.  And for anyone who says it’s too expensive — I spent more money bowling than I ever did at tennis. Read Ligons’ letter here.

Pam Parker is the mom of three, stepmom of three and editor of Lake Erie LifeStyle, Her Times and House to Home at the Erie Times-News in Erie, Pa.