Swinging Into Action

Kenosha (Wis.) Country Club

A remodeled tennis facility with ample seating and a layout for all skill sets is a win-win for Kenosha (Wis.) CC members and management.

Having served its membership since the late 1800s, Kenosha (Wis.) Country Club counts tennis as a long-standing pastime for its members. According to an article featured in the club’s 75th anniversary party program, the club’s first tennis courts were built in the early 1920s, with two courts added on in 1974. While its five total courts have been updated over the years, the club’s last major renovation of any tennis-related facility took place more than fifteen years ago.

“Our tennis courts had seen a lot of wear and tear and were in poor condition,” says General Manager David Bressler of the decision to update the club’s tennis area. “It was time.”

Breaking ground in the beginning of 2014, the tennis complex underwent a $250,000 renovation, supported by the club’s membership. Spearheaded by Riley Construction in Kenosha and Armstrong Paving of Milwaukee, the 41,000-sq. ft. tennis facility’s five courts were repaved with asphalt and now feature a “30-60-90” design, to accommodate younger players.

“With mini-courts painted inside of the courts, the dimensions are much better for beginners,” says Bressler. As a result, the club’s kids’ tennis program in the summer has become a big draw for members with young families.

Spectators can now watch the action on the courts from two viewing spots: a freshly poured bluestone patio, and a rooftop viewing area with protective glass walls and railing.

A pro shop and locker room are housed in the same building adjacent to the tennis courts. Spectators can also climb the stairs for a rooftop view of tennis matches below, with glass walls and a railing around the perimeter providing protection.

Overlooking the courts, the viewing area is outfitted with tables and chairs for up to 50 patrons during the warmer months. “People can sit and watch the game as they relax. It makes for a really lovely viewing area,” Bressler adds.

Underneath the elevated area is a remodeled, full-service tennis pro shop. “The inside of the shop was kept very traditional, in dark green and white with clean lines,” says Bressler of the 1,060-sq. ft. space. Updated with new fixtures, furniture and carpeting, it now offers an easy access spot for players’ needs.

Finally, adjoining changing facilities and bathrooms located just off the court now feature new six-foot metal lockers, sinks, fixtures and stalls. Plush green carpeting with white walls outfits the locker room, while green, interlocking rubber flooring surrounds the toilets and sinks.

To mark the opening of its renovated tennis complex last May, the club held a “Day of Fun” for tennis players, with juniors playing in the morning, adults in the evening, and refreshments for all. “Everyone had a great time,” says Bressler.

To maximize the new tennis facilities, a full roster of events is planned for the coming season, including a family tennis kick-off day, breakfast at a Wimbledon-style party, and an adult margarita mixer.

Redesigning its courts has paid off handsomely for Kenosha CC. According to Bressler, participation in the tennis program has increased by 25 percent in the last year, and the club has since been able to join the state competitor league—something that was not possible previously.

“Our tennis complex is front and center, the first thing you see when you pull into the driveway,” says Bressler. “Our members are proud to bring their guests to our club, and so are we.”

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