By-Line: Kaila Throne, Parks & Recreation
Excitement builds as we look to the future of tennis in Palm Coast during the process of Phase 2 construction at the Southern Recreation Center. We invite all residents to join us on Monday, January 13 from 8-9am at the Southern Recreation Center for a ribbon-cutting ceremony unveiling the newly finished courts and other enhancements. Redefined Food Co. will be open for food and beverage purchases during the ribbon cutting.
On June 18, 2024, City Council approved a “Growth Grant” agreement with the USTA, funding $700,000 to cover the construction of additional tennis courts. The USTA’s mission is to promote and develop tennis for all. This year, the USTA recognized the City of Palm Coast as part of the 75th anniversary of the USTA Florida Tennis Trail. The Southern Recreation Center has added 4 clay courts, new efficient LED lighting that will make us eligible for nighttime tournaments, and its first show court. Our show court is an open-air tennis stadium that seats over 140 spectators. We continue progressing towards other facility amenities including shade structures, water stations, and additional parking.
The Southern Recreation Center, located at 1290 Belle Terre Parkway, is the new home of the annual Palm Coast Open: A USTA Pro Circuit event. This year, we are excited to introduce the Women’s 35k Tournament alongside the Men’s 15k Tournament, a community staple for over 13 years. The Palm Coast Open is set to kick off on January 13, shortly after the ribbon cutting. Over the years, Palm Coast has hosted tennis legends like Andre Agassi, Michael Chang, Monica Seles, Jimmy Connors, and local star Reilly Opelka.
This year’s Tournament will feature talented players from more than 100 countries, including some of the top 300 ranked players in the world. USTA professionals will compete to earn ATP ranking points to advance to other tournaments throughout Florida. We invite residents, sports fans, and visitors to join us for the biggest sporting event in Palm Coast! The tournament is free to all spectators. Parking and tennis courts will be limited during this time.
The Palm Coast Open: A USTA Pro Circuit event will take place as follows:
Women’s 35k: January 13-19 at Southern Recreation Center
- Qualifiers – January 13
- Main Draw – January 14-15
- Doubles Final – January 18
- Singles Final – January 19
Men’s 15k: January 27-February 2 at Southern Recreation Center
- Wildcard – January 22-26
- Qualifiers – January 27
- Main Draw – January 28-29
- Doubles Final – February 1
- Singles Final – February 2
