SWINGING INTO SUMMER

Here in the frozen tundra of the Midwest, we have to pack all the outdoor activities into summer because we know it won’t be long before winter will be whispering in our ears.

In Hinsdale, Salt Creek Club has been providing opportunities for decades for extended families—grandparents, parents, kids—to get their splash on or take a few swings on the tennis or pickleball court. And not just that. Salt Creek members of all ages can hone their tennis or swimming skills by taking lessons from experienced pros and participating in tournaments and meets that get the competitive juices flowing.

Hinsdale resident Betsy Keefe joined Salt Creek with her parents in 2000 and her family and kids joined in 2019. Her four kids have participated in swim and tennis programs, while her and her husband stay active in the paddle programs. What she enjoys most about Salt Creek is the family and community atmosphere.

“When we joined in 2000 the staff was young and welcoming and lovely and passionate, and 95 percent of staff still works there today,” Keefe says. “It’s like a very family feel, open at the crack of dawn so lots of kids can spend their entire day there during summer.”

The club has also seen some renovations the past five to ten years that has allows it to host more adult events, such as social and cocktail hours. It now features a large rooftop deck where Keefe hosted her engagement party and birthday parties for her kids.

“It has a really pretty view, and they also have another larger rental space called the Creek Room that is used frequently,” she says. “You can dress it up for fancy events or keep it more casual.”

Another aspect of the club Keefe appreciates is that there are members from all over the West Suburbs, not just Hinsdale, so she’s been fortunate to meet other families that she probably otherwise wouldn’t.

“A lot of the families that my husband and I are friends with don’t even play tennis, so there’s a bit more of a casual vibe for the younger families and lot of happy hours,” says Keefe. “They are really trying to make it a club where you can spend your summers and make tons of memories.”

Alex Hershman is Vice President of the Salt Creek Board of Directors, and he says what motivated him to volunteer his time is the fact that Salt Creek “holds an irreplaceable spot in his childhood memories,” and now that he’s an adult it allows him to create new memories with his own family and also new friendships.

“Back in the 90s, when my family first became part of the Salt Creek community, it marked the beginning of unforgettable summers, Hershman says. “From tennis drills with friends—whom I’m fortunate to still share the court with after 25 years—to afternoons at the pool, followed by games of running bases and wiffle ball until my mom said it was time to head home.”

Now, the roles have reversed, and his own children eagerly await their swimming lessons, getting popsicles at the grill, and taking tennis lessons of their own.

“It’s a privilege to play a part in shaping the future of Salt Creek, ensuring that they, along with countless other families, can have lasting memories of the club,” says Hershman. “Additionally, my dad had held the same role 20 years prior, and I believe that makes us the first family to have a father and son as Vice President and then President. Who knows, maybe one of my children will make it three generations in another 30 years.”

Hershman remains heavily involved in planning Salt Creek’s signature event, the Bring-A-Ringer, which has become a highlight towards the end of each summer. What began as a member/ guest event has transformed into an impressive tournament, drawing some of the most talented young players, from top-ranked NCAA athletes to ATP-rated pros.

“While it attracts top-tier players, it remains open to all members, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the festivities. The round-robin format guarantees a fun time for everyone, both on the court and off, with parties before and after adding to the excitement,” he says. “It’s an event that embodies the spirit of Salt Creek—bringing people together, regardless of skill level, for a shared love of tennis and a good time.”

Former Salt Creek Board President Jeff Woolley joined Salt Creek as a member more than three decades ago in 1987. He says the beauty of the club is a focus on family and the family vibe it provides. He also appreciates the club’s more casual atmosphere as opposed to a traditional country club.

“With that comes stitching a community together and involvement with friends and guests you may know from the community,” Woolley says. “We don’t have a normal kitchen and dining area. We have a canteen, and that makes it casual and comfortable.”

Sounds like the perfect place to beat the summer heat in Hinsdale.

For more information about Salt Creek Club and memberships, visit saltcreekclub.com.