By-Line: Kaila Throne, Parks & Recreation
We debuted our newly finished tennis courts to kick off the Palm Coast Open: A USTA Pro Circuit event. This is a major win for the City of Palm Coast and our community, as residents have awaited the facility’s improvements. Tennis players boasted of the beautiful facility, plentiful courts, and friendly staff. It was a pleasure to bring the action to our new show court and four clay courts. We were even able to put our brand-new, state-of-the-art LED lighting to use for night play! These improvements couldn’t have happened without the approval of USTA’s “Growth Grant” back in June of 2024, supplying the City of Palm Coast with $700,000 in grant funds to contribute to the construction of the new tennis courts.
2025 marked the first year of the women’s tournament, the Palm Coast Open: A USTA Pro Circuit W35 Event. We welcomed women from around the world, many who are leaders in the tennis world and others who are young aspiring Grand Slam champions. Christina McHale, a former Olympian, graced the Southern Recreation Center with her presence as she came out of retirement to compete again. Chukwumelije Clarke, only 15 years old, stole our hearts not only because she was humble but her impressive skill was showcased throughout the tournament. Elizabeth Mandlik, the Palm Coast Open singles champion, previously number 46 in the ITF World Singles Rankings, was ecstatic and optimistic as she started her season off with a win, looking forward to creeping up the rankings again. The doubles finals winners were Lisa Zaar and Jasmjin Gimbrere, a lively duo who you would think had known each other for years! That chemistry came alive on the court, earning them their win. A bundle of stories that could go on and on to frame what the week was like.
January 27 marked the first day of the men’s tournament, the Palm Coast Open: A USTA Pro Circuit M15 Event. The weather held out all week long and made for a wonderful experience for the spectators. We utilized our show court more than ever, seeing well over 500 guests between semi-finals and finals. Everyone was glued to the court, watching as the players fought for their titles. Louis Van Herck and Marlon Vankan made a remarkable comeback to take home the doubles final win. On Sunday, February 2, the singles finals took place, and the crowd was astonished as Garrett Johns and Sebastian Gima hit the 3-hour mark. Garrett Johns secured the victory with a final run-time of 3 hours and 14 minutes. We couldn’t believe the tenacity shown by both players.
As we wrap up the tournaments, we can’t help but feel an immense sense of gratitude for our staff, volunteers, ball kids, pass holders, the USTA, Friends of Tennis, residents, visitors, and the entire community. Without you all, we couldn’t make this event come to life and be as successful as it was. This event boosted business for local hotels, restaurants, and shops, drawing in tourists and locals alike. Redefined Food Co. played an instrumental role by extending their hours through the entirety of each tournament, making sure the visiting players, staff, volunteers, and spectators had food and drink options while enjoying the event. We look forward to what the rest of the year holds as the Southern Recreation Center continues making improvements like additional parking, sidewalks, shade covers, and water stations. And we can’t wait to see everyone again next year for the Palm Coast Open!
