4 min read
The MacAlester & Meligy Tennis Academy runs Universal Tennis events for adults and juniors, including match play opportunities and tournaments. They are one of the first Universal Tennis clubs to try Team Tennis, an innovative format for players to enjoy better competition through level-based groupings, with all results counting towards Verified UTR Ratings.
Located in New Orleans, the Academy opened in 2020 at the Chateau Country Clob, uniting players eager for match play and new competition on 7 clay courts and 2 hard courts. The Academy organizes year-round one-day match play events for singles and doubles that are not gender or age-specific with the goal of getting players accurately rated. Players are always guaranteed at least two matches per event.
Using Universal Tennis to Grow
Running Universal Tennis events has helped increase the public profile of the academy and country club in the community.
“We run events because of the marketing," Academy co-founder Hossam Meligy said. "People now know there's a program that's running here. It definitely helps raise the club awareness.”
Relying on UTR Rating
For prize money tournaments, match series events, and Junior Circuits, players are separated into draws based on UTR Rating, ensuring level-based play. The academy even relies on UTR Rating for practice.
“We've been using UTR Rating in the academy to separate groups, and it's been good because it's clear cut. There are no complaints or arguments. We have three groups, and UTR Rating separates each group players must hit to move up.”
Junior Circuits events were introduced in the fall. Players who compete in at least two Junior Circuits events can qualify for the District Championship, which was also held at the MacAlester & Meligy Academy. Junior Circuits, split into three divisions based on UTR Rating, provide players with extra motivation to compete regularly.
“Our players always have to have goals. Once they reach the next level, they need another goal to ensure they're always motivated.”
To learn more about Team Tennis, including how you can bring it to your club, click here.