Greater Eagle River Tennis Association (GERTA)

A 40-year History of Organized Tennis in the Eagle River Area

In January 1981, a group of twenty people attended an organizational meeting held at the St. Germain Community Center.  The first officers of this new tennis organization were Tony Slaroska, president; Harold Uleno, VP; Ginette Puckert, treasurer; and Eunice Rubin, secretary.  The first Constitution and Bylaws were established in 1982 as the “Eagle River Tennis Club” and play took place on the Eagle River courts by the fairground, which had been built in 1975.

From this beginning, the tennis group grew and was established as a tax-exempt organization in 1997.  Named the “Greater Eagle River Tennis Association” or GERTA, the new name reflected the fact that recreational players throughout the wider area were actively involved.  GERTA continued to grow, and an extended 25-year lease was signed in March 1995 with the Vilas County Board, transferring responsibility for court upkeep and maintenance to GERTA through December 31, 2021.

Over the years, a variety of types of tournaments and play have been popular, including pyramid play, singles & doubles play for women, men, and mixed doubles. Start/Restart Tennis Camps and Youth Tennis Camps have encouraged usage of the courts for new and returning players.  The lighted courts are open to the public and remain well-used throughout the playing season.

Significantly, the positive contribution of GERTA to the Eagle River area was recognized in November 2019 by the USTA Midwest/Wisconsin District:  GERTA was named as the recipient of the 2019 Community Tennis Association of the Year Award.

Board of Directors

Susan Richmond

President

Calla Albaugh

Vice President

Sherry Stecker

Secretary

Debbie Gough

Treasurer

Committees

Susie Regez

Audit

Pat Tucker

Fundraising

Greg Blum

Maintenance

Program Coordinators

Marilyn Duschl

Monday Mixed Pyramid, Ladies Friday & Sunday AM

Susan Richmond

Tournaments

Pat Tucker &
Ingrid Decker

Tuesday Evening Ladies Open

Ray Albaugh

Thursday Round Robins

Sherry Stecker

Ladies Wednesday AM

Tennis Court Maintenance Fund

With the new tennis courts come more expenses.  If you would like to donate funds to help maintain these beautiful new courts, please complete this form.