I had never been to Austin, Texas, before nor did I know but a couple of people who lived here when I moved to the city in June. When I packed up my little blue car to drive 14 hours from home, I stuffed some tennis rackets in the trunk — because even though I didn’t play competitively the last four years in college, I thought I’d probably want to get involved again, especially since I’d be thinking about tennis all day with my new job at MyTennisLessons.
Through emailing the USTA Austin league coordinator, I met some members of a women’s league, who welcomed the opportunity to have a new playing partner. Although I had trouble finding a USTA league here that suited my schedule, age and ability, these women invited me to play doubles with them once a week as practice for their league matches. Later, they told me about Austin Tennis League, a local organization that has teams for all levels and Austin Tennis Net, a ladder system that gives you matches with players at your level and ranks based on your win/loss record. I also took a semi-private tennis lesson with a friend, which was the perfect way to refresh my skills.
If you’re a young adult or recent college graduate who has just moved to a new city, tennis is a great way to meet new people, stay active and have fun.
Leagues through the Tennis League Network in the following cities cost $34.95 and joining the ladder costs $9 per month, but if you play three or more people in one month, the next month is free. In addition, for $4 to $6 per month you can join the organization’s “partner program,” which pairs members with 20 men and/or women in your area and allows you to play matches or hit in a less competitive setting. Need more practice before you start playing again? MyTennisLessons has qualified instructors in each of these cities ready to help you get started with tennis lessons again.
Leagues & Ladders: “Tennis DC is a perfect league for people who look for a flexible schedule but still like competitive matches. Great way to meet people of similar playing skills.” — M. Chromkova, TennisDC
Lessons: Take lessons with former player at John Hopkins University Gregg M who can drill you on the fundamentals, serve as a hitting partner or help you with match play.
Leagues & Ladders: “It’s so great to be back playing tennis weekly for very little cost.” — A Kussell, TennisNorthEast
Lessons: Kenny N. tailors his lessons based on your skill level — so whether you won the state championship in high school or enjoy playing recreationally, he’s qualified to help you improve your tennis game.
Leagues & Ladders: “Totally fun to play with such a variety of talented people!! Will definitely do this again next year!” — L. Downey, ChiTownTennis
Lessons: After taking a break from tennis while attending high school in Germany, Anna P. got involved with teaching lessons when she moved to the United States as a young adult.
Leagues & Ladders: “I’ve had such a great time playing in the league. I’ve met so many nice people around the Seattle area. So much fun!” — J. Unay, Tennis-Seattle
Lessons: Former Seattle University player Jason B. loves to get his students active and having fun on the court.
Leagues & Ladders: “Great way to meet cool dudes and improve your game!” S. Chocran, TennisLosAngeles
Lessons: An LA transplant from Pennsylvania, Kyle M. currently holds the no. 2 spot on the men’s tennis ladder and is always eager to meet new students.
Get to know new people in your new city through tennis. Even if it’s been many years since you picked up a racket, the tennis community wherever you go is welcoming to all ages and abilities — I promise.
