Owensboro hosting USTA event this weekend

Get ready for the excitement as more than 400 adult tennis players from all around Kentucky gather in Owensboro this weekend. The United States Tennis Association (USTA) Adult Combo League State Championships will be taking place at the Owensboro Tennis Complex and Moreland Park. It’s going to be a thrilling three-day event starting at 8 a.m. on Friday with matches scheduled throughout Saturday. The championships for each division, including 18-and-older, 40-and-older, and 55-and-older, will be held on Sunday morning.

Thanks to the collaboration between the Owensboro-Daviess County Tennis Association, the City of Owensboro Parks & Recreation Department, and the Owensboro-Daviess County Visitors Bureau, the tournament has found its home in Owensboro until at least 2024. This partnership with USTA, the city, and the visitors bureau has made it possible to bring such prestigious events to Owensboro. ODCTA president Noel Clayton expressed his excitement about the partnerships.

The unique league combo format brings doubles partners of different levels together to compete against opponents of the same two levels. A full team match is played on three doubles courts, with each team consisting of a minimum of eight players. This event is the first of its kind to be hosted in Owensboro, making it even more special.

What sets this championship apart from others is the convenience it offers. With 12 courts at the Owensboro Tennis Complex and 12 courts at Moreland Park, both located just five minutes away from each other, traveling between the two venues is hassle-free. Clayton highlighted this advantage, comparing it to other cities like Louisville and Lexington where tournament sites could be located far apart. Moreover, spectators are encouraged to attend and witness the thrilling action.

The economic impact of the championship is estimated to be around $344,871, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Clayton believes that people will truly enjoy their time in Owensboro, with plenty of attractions and activities available in the area.

Owensboro will also be proudly represented by six local teams, which Clayton sees as a positive development for both the tournament and the local tennis community. Local players will have the advantage of playing on their home turf instead of traveling to distant cities like Louisville or Lexington. Clayton hopes to see more first-time players from Owensboro, emphasizing the importance of getting people out on the court and participating.