April 30, 2009

Carnival on the Courts is Saturday, May 2, at Award-Winning Tennis Center

The Arlington Tennis Center at 500 W. Mayfield Road is getting ready for its Fourth Annual USTA Block Party - Carnival by the Courts. The free event is 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 2.
Carnival by the Courts allows Arlington to showcase its award-winning tennis facility, according to Parks Marketing Manager Kelly Drawdy. It also allows center professionals to introduce tennis to new players. Adults and children have the opportunity to learn about tennis in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, she said. ATC professionals will offer drills for adults, such as target and serve courts, and a junior beginner court for youths age 4-10.
Prizes will be awarded, and racquets and bags will be given away as door prizes. The event will also feature music, refreshments and a dunking booth. Proceeds from the booth will benefit Arlington Animal Services, which will also be on site with its mobile adoption unit.
The Arlington Tennis Center was selected as a 2008 Top 50 Tennis Welcome Center by the Tennis Industry Association and the U.S. Tennis Association for its increased participation involving new and returning players and its support of industry programs.
“The staff at the Arlington Center has created a positive tennis experience for people in the DFW area,” says Jolyn de Boer, executive director of the Tennis Industry Association. “Tennis Welcome Centers serve a vital role in delivering quality tennis programs.”
The Tennis Welcome Center initiative has played a leading role in the sport’s growth. To learn more about Tennis Welcome Centers, visit http://www.TennisWelcomeCenter.com
Saturday’s event is also part of the Arlington Parks and Recreation Naturally Fun Neighborhoods program. It is also an opportunity for Arlington Passport holders to earn stamps.
For more information about Arlington tennis programs, Naturally Fun Neighborhoods and Passport Arlington, visit www.naturallyfun.org or call the Parks and Recreation Department at 817-459-5488.
For more information about Saturday’s event, contact Kelly Drawdy at 817-459-6931 or cell phone 817-680-0867 or e-mail Kelly.Drawdy@arlingtontx.gov.