As we move into the colder winter months here in the Northeast, that means the indoor racquet sport and paddle season is upon us. This is when local clubs and facilities have to prepare their bubbles and the influx of players moving indoors.
New York Tennis Magazine sat down with Bob Jessome, Service Manager for The Farley Group, one of the leading manufactures and servicers of bubbles and structures in North American, to discuss how to prepare for the winter season, and what to know when gearing up for the cold weather.
NYTM: As we move into the indoor racquet sports season, what should clubs and facilities do to ensure their bubbles are up-to-date?
Jessome: The first step is to prepare with preventive maintenance, focusing on gas and electrical checks. Once the dome is up, it’s essential to ensure any lighting is cleaned properly before installation, particularly with clay surfaces. Additionally, domes should be stored dry and clean. Keeping interior accessories to a minimum enhances the appearance and reduces clutter, promoting safety. Key items to include are nets and some seating to maintain functionality while preserving space.
NYTM: What are some of the biggest mistakes companies make when putting up a bubble for the winter? What should they know before committing to a project?
Jessome: Accessibility is crucial—companies need to thoroughly review the site plan to ensure adequate access for installation and takedown. Snow removal is often a challenge when fences are too close to the dome, limiting removal options to manual methods. Flip-up fences can mitigate this issue, allowing easier access. Additionally, companies should account for operational expenditures, such as storage on-site or off-site.
NYTM: Besides weather conditions, what are some of the benefits of getting a dome or bubble for your facility?
Jessome: Domes enable year-round play with climate control, minimizing cancellations due to weather. They foster a sense of community, allowing members to gather and enjoy sports throughout the year. In regions like Guelph, domes particularly appeal to all generations, providing a comfortable environment and encouraging camaraderie among players.
NYTM: Do you see a lot of interest in pickleball-related projects? How has the rise in pickleball popularity impacted what you do?
Jessome: Absolutely—pickleball projects have increased dramatically, with a significant rise in the past five years. The demand has led to numerous conversations about upgrading existing courts or constructing new domes to accommodate pickleball. Since pickleball courts require less space, they allow for more courts within a given dome footprint compared to traditional tennis layouts. Although pickleball is currently trending, the interest in tennis remains strong, with renewed growth this year.
NYTM: What differentiates your services from competitors in the industry?
Jessome: The Farley Group has the largest service department in the air-supported structure industry, offering 2-3 times the capacity of competitors. Our mobile service and high level of expertise set us apart. We have built a culture centered around service, focusing on building lifetime relationships with clients. While many companies provide emergency-only support, we prioritize both ongoing maintenance and emergency response.
NYTM: How important are customer service and open communication to your work?
Jessome: Customer service and open dialogue are fundamental to our approach. Feedback from customers drives continuous improvements in maintenance, design, and innovation. Customer insights have directly influenced our product offerings, such as direct lighting and insulation solutions. By maintaining open communication, we ensure that we meet customer needs and adapt to emerging trends. This commitment to listening and evolving has earned us ongoing customer referrals.
This article was orginally posted by New York Tennis Magazine