Public Park of the Year: Mercer County Park T.C.
All it takes is one look around the Mercer County Park Tennis Center to understand why it is such a sought-after venue, why it has won three national awards, and why it now is Tennis Industry’s 2014 Public Park of the Year.
The Center, situated on 19 acres in a 2,500-acre park, began in 1981, and it just kept improving. A maintenance schedule was developed for the 22 outdoor courts, a six-court indoor center was built, and blended lines and lights were added. Programs prospered, and players came from near and far to join the popular leagues, drills, and tournaments, and play in the special events.
The Center has hosted USTA League sectionals, US Open Sectional Qualifying, and high school and collegiate tournaments, as well as the huge 2014 Special Olympics USA Games. The county also developed a permanent display for the Mercer County Tennis Hall of Fame and housed it in a new building that also serves as tournament headquarters.
“Thousands of people use our Tennis Center each year,” says Director of Tennis Marc Vecchiolla. “Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes and Park Commission Executive Director Kevin Bannon have been immeasurably supportive and extremely proactive with upgrades. When people visit from outside the county, they are so impressed by what was accomplished here. The County of Mercer is tremendously proud of our beautiful tennis facility.”
— Ann LoPrinzi
Tips for success
- Maintain a clean/safe, well-manicured facility.
- Provide friendly and knowledgeable service.
- Offer a range of programs for a diverse community and all levels.
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