Tennis Industry News

The Arlington Tennis Center in Texas first became a Tennis Welcome Center in 2006. “The TWC initiative was new, and indications were that it was going to be a prime means to grow tennis in our community,” says ATC Facility Manager Sheryl Osborn. “We wanted to be a part of the growth stimulated by the new program. The partnership with major retailers was also a perfect way to inspire folks to become new players.”

The public Arlington Tennis Center, which is part of the Arlington Parks and Recreation Department, has 20 lighted outdoor hard courts, pro shop that offers stringing and demo racquets, locker rooms, concession area and more, including wireless internet, which encourages players to spend more time at the facility. Osborne says that since becoming a TWC, the center has expanded virtually all of its programs, including classes, drill sessions, recreational leagues, USTA leagues, lessons and team tennis.

“In the TWC initiative’s first year, we saw an increase of nearly 29% in program participation,” she says. “Steady increases have continued each year, particularly with our entry-level programs.” And, despite a tight economy, ATC saw total revenue for fiscal 2009 increase by more than 5% over 2008. “Increased participation in programs also contributed to pro shop sales and special event activity.”

Since becoming a TWC, the center’s special events and tournaments have grown in size and number each year. In addition to enhanced programming, ATC has also been recognized with eight national and sectional awards in the last three years since joining the TWC initiative – almost as many as received in the 11 years prior to becoming a TWC.

Entry-level programs run the gamut, from QuickStart Tennis for juniors right through adult leagues and drill sessions. “In addition, we’ve partnered with our CTA to offer a QuickStart junior development program free of charge to financially disadvantaged players,” says Osborne. ATC was the first facility in the area to begin actively teaching QST classes. Since that time in January 2008, nearly 1,800 students have gone through QST.

ATC students participate in area QST tournaments, and the center is working with the local Tennis Service Rep to form a QuickStart Jr. Team Tennis team. ATC is also host to more than 50 tournaments and events each year, including nine USTA sanctioned events, a national open championship, a US Open Sectional Qualifying tournament, a USTA Zone Team championship, a USTA National Men’s Intersectional Team Event and a National Public Parks State Championship.

“We are a premier public facility that offers top-level amenities, services and programs without monthly membership fees,” says Osborne. “ATC is a one-stop shop for every tennis need, from beginner to professional.”