Athlete of the Week: Mel Taub

Mel Taub plays golf three times a week and tennis about four times a week, and he tries to exercise every day. He has been playing tennis for about 30 years and favors it to golf. He plays 18-hole golf at the ongboat Key Club and Resort (where he has been a member since ’87), but plays 9-hole golf with his wife, Cheryl, almost every week.

What got you started playing tennis?
Well, I used to play basketball, but the group I was playing with was getting younger I wanted to find another physical activity, so I decided to try tennis with some friends and really liked it.

What got you started playing golf?
Living on Longboat, a lot of my friends play golf — a lot of them played golf instead of tennis because of injuries. I like the game a lot. It’s a wonderful game, but the only downside is it’s not physical enough.

What’s your favorite aspect of tennis?
The competition and the guys. I’ve met some wonderful people on Longboat, from all over the place, and they’ve become good friends. And, of course, the exercise.

What’s the most difficult part of tennis?
That would be losing. And over the years, I’ve had my fair share of physical issues: a knee replacement in ’05, and four months ago I had a hip replacement. (Three or four weeks ago) I was back in my regular games. And nobody pities me! I still have people drop-shotting, lobbing and making me run!

Where is the most beautiful place you’ve played tennis?
It’s here, on Longboat Key. I’ve played tennis a lot of places, even Hawaii. But tennis is beautiful here.

What’s the breakfast of champions?
Coffee and juice. I like to come back from playing to go to the brunch with Cheryl.

Who is your favorite person to play golf with?
Cheryl. I’d like to get my wife to play 18 holes.