State tennis tournaments both coming to Wooster
On Oct. 19-21, The College of Wooster will host the Ohio High School Athletic Association Girls State Tennis Tournaments. The boys state tournament also will be held in Wooster next May.
In a move that could elevate the Ohio High School Athletic Association Girls State Tennis Tournament to new heights, the decision to relocate the event to The College of Wooster and the Aspen Racquet Club Oct. 19-21 has generated excitement among players, coaches, and the area in and around Wooster.
The tournament was previously held in Mason.
When OHSAA officials embarked on their quest to find the perfect host facility, they visited colleges throughout Ohio. The College of Wooster emerged as a standout candidate. What set Wooster apart was not only its facilities, but also the college’s commitment to hosting the state tournaments on short notice.
The College of Wooster’s campus includes 12 recently built outdoor tennis courts.
“The College of Wooster is thrilled to open its courts to the best and brightest tennis talent from across the state,” Wooster athletics facilities manager Jeff Bricker said. “We’re ready to serve up an unforgettable experience at this year’s state tennis tournament.”
Complementing The College of Wooster, the Aspen Racquet Club adds to the OHSAA tournaments. Located just minutes from the college, ARC boasts six indoor courts, ensuring the tournament can proceed smoothly regardless of weather conditions.
Influential in bringing the OHSAA tournaments to Northeast Ohio were Dustin Ware, OHSAA sports administrator; Mike McGee, State of Ohio rules interpreter; Bricker; and Kent Smith, Aspen Racquet Club director of tennis.
“It is so awesome to have this tournament in Wooster. It has never been held in Northeast Ohio, and everyone in this region is excited,” said Smith, who also is the longtime tennis coach at Orrville High. “What a great thing for The College of Wooster, Aspen Racquet Club and the Wooster business community.”
With 96 participants and an estimated 1,200-1,500 attendees, this year’s event will be a showcase of Ohio’s tennis talent.
Wooster also will host the 2024 boys tennis state tournament May 23-24, 2024.
“Wooster has fantastic new outdoor tennis courts, and our student-athletes will enjoy playing there for a state championship,” OHSAA Executive Director Doug Ute said. “If there are weather issues, the Aspen Racquet Club is one of the nicest indoor facilities that we have ever had the opportunity to use.”