Net Gains: Edwardsville Futures a blast for players, community

The Edwardsville Futures USTA Pro Circuit continues to attract tennis fanatics from all over, as the event is the only professional tennis tournament in the Greater St. Louis area. Held at Edwardsville High School, the annual tournament strengthens a tight-knit community through its citizens’ love of tennis.

“Our tournament is a much different model than the other pro circuits,” said Dave Lipe, tournament director and Edwardsville High School boys’ and girls’ tennis head coach. “We’re the only high school that hosts. We are presented by the EGHM Foundation, which helps raise money for the school district. The school board, local businesses and hotels pitch in to help. Fans love coming to watch, and our players love the big crowd.”

The 13th rendition of the tournament took place July 28 to Aug. 4. Gavin Young from the University of Michigan defeated Kyle Kang from Stanford University in the men's singles championship to snag his first career professional title. In men's doubles action, Felix Corwin/Nathan Ponwith bested Lucas Horve/Oliver Okonkwo in three sets in the finals.

Beyond the tournament itself, there were additional activities for individuals to get involved throughout the week. On July 29, Edwardsville’s neighboring community, Glen Carbon, conducted Kids’ Night at the Futures. This event was a great way for young players to have a fun night of practice. Hosted by Edwardsville Tennis Academy and Tigers Tennis Camps, this fun and free clinic was open to kids of all ages and abilities.

“A big part of our strategy is our community events, so it’s not unusual for us to see 100 kids throughout the week,” Lipe said.

On July 30, Edwardsville hosted a Diversity Day event to recognize those who have fought to make tennis an inclusive sport. The day included educational presentations by guest speakers, a free kids’ tennis clinic and lunch for participants. For photos from Diversity Day, click here.

“This was our fifth Diversity Day, and we had a really great panel of folks to come out and speak,” Lipe said. “We featured four groups that provide tennis opportunities to underrepresented groups.”

Aug. 1 features Mitch ‘n’ Friends—a tennis clinic for children with special needs—hosted by the Edwardsville YMCA. For photos from Mitch 'n' Friends, click here.