DC's tennis and learning center received a massive $18 million renovation and celebrated last week with tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams unveiling the establishment that bares their namesake.
"The support of Venus and Serena is something that has been a driving force behind the success of the Center from day one," said Cora Masters Barry, president and founder of the Recreation Wish List Committee. "We are privileged to be able to honor them with the naming of the new tennis arena.
Williams sisters Serena (left) and Venus unveil the Venus and Serena Williams Tennis Arena in Southeast, DC. |
A gala was held after the unveiling and was emceed by James "JB" Brown, network broadcaster of CBS News and Sports.
A model for other cities
In a media press release distributed by the center claims the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center (SETLC) "is the first facility of it's kind in the nation and has become a model for other cities. The center and others inspired by it will be integral in the development of U.S. tennis."
With the new tennis facility comes new opportunities for the Center and those who frequent its halls, as well as an opportunity for new tennis players to call the SETLC home. The George Washington University has committed to hosting all of its men's and women's home Atlantic 10 conference tennis matches at the Center.
Additionally, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) is in discussions to host Regional and National Tournaments as well USTA coaches' training there.
Currently, the SETLC is a National Junior Tennis Learning Chapter and with the upgraded facility, is on its way to becoming a Regional Training Center.
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