Inagural Tennis on Campus Event a Success

Published on: 6/3/2014

Two years ago UW-Madison student, and club tennis player Kelly Johnson had a vision of bringing together alumni and former club tennis players around the state for a campus wide event.

The inaugural Tennis on Campus Event took place this past Saturday from 4:30-7pm at Lakeshore Courts in Madison.

The event brought in sixteen former players, who still had the itch to return to the courts, and compete with other alumni from years past.

“For a first time event, you never know what to expect in terms of the number of players that turn out, Johnson said. I was pleasantly surprised my goal next year would be to double the amount of players so that they can enjoy the awesome experience of the Tennis On Campus Events.”

Former players from the state schools that participated in club tennis in college were welcomed to come, and compete at the event.

Best of all was that the event was free, and entirely funded by the USTA Tennis After Campus Program grant.

The festivities kicked off by introductions of the alumni, with a meet and greet to familiarize each player with one another.

Next each of the players chose a partner, and the rotated playing doubles matches against the other teams.

After a grueling two and a half hours on the court, the players relaxed on the Lakeshore patio behind the courts, in which they were doused with a catered meal from Subway, and some refreshing watermelon.

At the event, USTA volunteer Denny Schackter was on hand to talk to the players, and also hand out free sets of Wilson tennis string for everyone to take home.

Johnson knew the importance of not only creating a fun atmosphere but one in which the alumni could build friendships with those who love to play the game.

“Competition is only one small part the sport, the biggest and best part about playing tennis is going out meeting new people, while at the same time creating memories with these other players that share the same interest that you have.”

Johnson is planning to host the second Tennis on Campus Event in May of 2015.