Locals highlight State Games adult tennis
By By Will Bardwell / staff writer
May 28, 2004
This year's State Games adult tennis tournament may not be a sanctioned event, but tennis commissioner Wanda McPhail doesn't think it will matter.
"Most all of the adults who participate are locals, so I don't think it'll hurt turnout," said McPhail, the Meridian Community College tennis coach who oversees the State Games tennis events.
McPhail said the United States Tennis Association went to an online registration format which the State Games did not use. Still, she expects adult tennis, which drew about 70 entries in 2003, to remain one of the most popular events in the State Games.
"There's been a lot more interest in mixed doubles recently," McPhail said. "I think it's just one of those trends, but some of it is because husbands and wives can play together."
Mixed doubles will be one of five divisions open to competitors in adult tennis. Unlike the State Games junior tennis tournament, eligibility is judged not on age, but NTRP level.
Men's singles and doubles are open to players with an NTRP level of 3.0-5.0. Women's singles and doubles are for players at level 3.0-4.5, and mixed doubles entrants must be at level 5.5-9.5.
Players, who must be at least 19 years old to enter, must provide proof of their NTRP rating. Non-rated players may also participate, but their rating may be determined by the tournament director.
The tournament will take place June 25-27 at Northeast Park's tennis complex. The event will begin at 1 p.m. on June 25 and will be spread out over the complex's 10 tennis courts.
"The facility at Northeast really lends itself to spectators," McPhail said. "It's a beautiful covered area, and you can see all 10 courts from there."
First-round playing times will be made available on the morning of June 24.
Entries will be accepted through June 22. Entrants must pay a $35 registration fee for singles and $46 for doubles teams.
Players may compete in up to two events, but should be prepared to play in two matches per day in each event entered.
For event applications or schedules call 1-800-462-0205 or visit the State Games of Mississippi website at www.stategamesofms.org.
