Boone’s McHose Park tennis courts set for upgrade with USTA National grant

In connection with Park and Recreation Month taking place in July in the United States, USTA Iowa is highlighting McHose Park in Boone.

McHose Park is the largest park on the south side of Boone, Iowa, with many amenities including baseball fields, playgrounds, a volleyball court, basketball court, trails and more. It also has six lighted tennis courts, which are used heavily during the summer months.

“Our high school girls’ and boys’ teams use them during their regular seasons as well as postseason play,” said Mike Cornelis, City of Boone park superintendent. “(They also host) camps for young children. So, a lot of kids and young adults from around the state of Iowa use the facility.”

The City of Boone Parks Department was recently approved to resurface all six tennis courts this month. They are receiving $28,650 from USTA National in Tennis Venue Services grant funding for the project that costs a total of $53,300. It’s been at least seven years since the courts were last worked on.

“A few cracks have developed and we have some low spots where water has damaged the courts,” said Jed Hammen, Boone High School boys’ tennis head coach. “We are constantly hosting camps, clinics and tournaments, and this will definitely enhance the experience. Our girls will have brand-new courts for their first-ever fall season.”

Shawn Latimer, Boone High School girls’ tennis head coach, said McHose Park is one of the nicest tennis venues in the state. But in the last few years, the courts have started to deteriorate. Latimer is looking forward to the upcoming improvements.

“This project will have us back to one of the nicest places to play and potentially allow us to host postseason events,” Latimer said.

Check out additional USTA Missouri Valley stories for Park and Recreation Month by clicking here. Learn about Tennis Venue Services by clicking here.