In a heartwarming tale of friendship, camaraderie, and a shared love for the sport, a group of senior tennis enthusiasts from the Phoenix area embarked on an unforgettable journey to the United Kingdom, showcasing the enduring power of tennis to enrich lives and foster connections across borders.

Lifelong Passion Fuels Adventurous Spirit

Discovering the Joy of Tennis

For 78-year-old Dale Ehrbright, a resident of the Province community in Arizona, tennis has been a lifelong passion that has taken him on numerous adventures both on and off the court. Growing up in Silver Spring, Maryland, Ehrbright fondly recalls shoveling snow off the local courts to play with his father, who introduced him to the sport. Despite initially struggling to make the high school tennis team, Ehrbright's perseverance paid off, as he went on to excel as an upperclassman, setting numerous state records.

Balancing Careers and Tennis

Ehrbright's love for tennis has been a constant thread throughout his life, even as he pursued other interests and careers. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, he managed recreational facilities, including swimming pools, and even briefly gave up tennis to focus on earning a mechanical engineering degree. However, the lure of the court proved too strong, and Ehrbright returned to the sport during his 26-year career with Chevron, earning a top-5 ranking in the southern states region.

Forming Lasting Friendships

It was in Maricopa, Arizona, that Ehrbright's tennis journey took an exciting turn. As one of the early homeowners in the Province community, he began playing at the Sun Lakes courts, where he met his longtime doubles partner, Leo Lapane. The two formed a formidable team, reaching a national ranking as high as No. 13 in their age group. Their on-court chemistry and camaraderie were the driving forces behind their success, with Ehrbright's powerful serve and Lapane's consistent volleying complementing each other perfectly.

Expanding Horizons with International Travel

The friendship and shared passion for tennis led Ehrbright, Lapane, and a group of seven other Valley residents on a recent adventure to the United Kingdom. Joined by five wives and girlfriends, the group embarked on a tennis tour, exploring the sport's origins in Birmingham, England, and participating in an International Tennis Federation tournament. Despite a minor injury that prevented Ehrbright from competing in the singles event, the group enjoyed the camaraderie and the opportunity to connect with their new English friends, who extended an invitation for a return visit to Pinal County the following year.

Embracing a Lifetime of Passions

While tennis is undoubtedly a central part of Ehrbright's life, it is just one of his many passions. A licensed pilot, ham radio operator, and skilled metalworker, Ehrbright's interests extend far beyond the tennis court. He has also coached numerous players, imparting his wisdom and experience to help others improve their game. Ehrbright's diverse array of hobbies and his willingness to share his knowledge with others are a testament to his zest for life and his desire to make the most of every moment.

Inspiring Others Through Tennis

Lapane, Ehrbright's longtime doubles partner, is also a shining example of the transformative power of tennis. After a rocky start to his tournament career in his early 30s, Lapane went on to become a top player in the Southwest, earning numerous accolades and rankings. Now in his 80s, Lapane continues to be a tennis ambassador, playing weekly at venues across Arizona and competing in national tournaments. He credits the sport with keeping him young, both physically and mentally, and inspiring him to get up every morning.The story of Ehrbright, Lapane, and their group of tennis-loving friends serves as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to pursuing one's passions and embracing new adventures. Through their shared love of the sport, they have forged lifelong friendships, maintained their physical and mental well-being, and created memories that will last a lifetime.