As one of its first residents, Terry Chew helped Delta Coves grow to the community it is today. He co-leads one of the most popular clubs in the neighborhood – Pickleball. We chatted with him about life at Delta Coves, picking up pickleball, and his advice for new residents.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m a retired police officer with 30 years of service. I’ve been married to Linda for over 30 years. I am an avid outdoorsman. I enjoy fishing, and playing and teaching pickleball. I represent our area as a USA pickleball ambassador.
How long have you called Delta Coves home?
I have lived in Delta Coves going on 5 years and have the pleasure of being one of the first residents.
What do you enjoy most about living in Delta Coves?
What I enjoy most about living here, in Delta Coves, are the friendships that we made with all of our neighbors and creating a community that we all can be proud of.
What are some of your favorite memories and traditions here?
Some of my favorite memories and traditions here at Delta Coves are the little fishing tournament that they have every year, the opening day activities, and get togethers. Our monthly potlucks are a hit.
What inspired you to move to Delta Coves?
It was my goal to have a waterfront property to take my father fishing. He and I have been fishing the California delta for many many years. He had to stop fishing because of his illness and I thought by having a waterfront property on the Delta that I could get him fishing again. I was lucky that he was able to see the house and spend time with the whole family when he visited, but he did not want to go fishing. A short time after, he passed.
What do you think makes Delta Coves a great community?
Everyone that comes to Delta Coves has one thing in common: the water. Imagine all the things that you can do on the water. And a close second is the new friends that you make here. I’ve actually had the pleasure of going on vacation and attending family get togethers with neighbors.
What is it about Pickleball that pulls you in?
Pickleball is a sport that is all inclusive. People of all ages can play this game. Some of the benefits are meeting new people, creating a new lifestyle for yourself, and physical activity, cardio workout and physical training. Let’s not forget the mental aspects of the game: keeping score and learning the rules and strategy.
If a neighbor wanted to get involved in Pickleball, do you have any tips for getting started?
If a neighbor wanted to learn how to play pickleball, all they have to do is message me on Facebook or send me an email through the resident website. I will set up a date and time to teach them how to play the game. There is no need to buy any equipment. I have everything needed for them to use during our lesson.
What are your favorite water activities?
I have many water activities I like, but by far my favorite is fishing. This is followed by boating with neighbors, paddle boarding, kayaking, and e-foiling. Not to mention that I bought a project boat and hopefully that’ll be on the water this season
What other clubs and activities are you involved in within the neighborhood or Delta?
I am currently a member of the board of directors for the Discovery Bay Pickleball club.
What's an interesting fact others might not know about you?
If people haven’t found out already, I am not afraid to speak the truth.
Any tips or encouragement for neighbors considering leading a club or getting more involved here in Delta Coves?
My advice is just do it. I was going to start the fishing club but unfortunately, I just don’t have the time to do it. I am hoping there is someone that is up to the challenge.