2.5 league teams gear up for outdoor season

Now that spring has sprung, we have outdoor leagues on our minds! The 2024 outdoor league season kicks off in April with Open 18 & Over as well as 65 & Over teams gearing up to hit the courts for fun and friendly competition.

This year, USTA Kansas has a number of 2.5 outdoor league teams vying for the top of the standings. Kim Ritchie, a 2.5 team captain playing out of Wichita, shared her insights on the season and motivation to captain a team this year. 

“My thoughts and hopes for the season are to continue to foster the growth of tennis at the beginner level 2.5 on both the men’s and women’s teams. (And) to create a competitive yet friendly environment that serves as a springboard for the love of tennis,” Ritchie said. “I’m looking forward to playing outdoors and seeing the continued progress of each of my teammates.

“I enjoy playing in USTA leagues because it has been very rewarding to see my personal growth as a tennis player through my losses and wins and being part of a team. Captaining the USTA 2.5 teams (both men’s and women’s) has been a pleasure, because I’m meeting such a diverse group of people who are all coming together to play and support each other. I feel very fortunate to have such great, supportive men and women who helped make these leagues a success.

“I’m very grateful for PTF (Play Tennis Fast) that started my tennis journey last year. Thank you to the staff and tennis professionals at Genesis Health Clubs (West Central and Rock Road)!”

If you’d like to play on or captain a USTA team, please visit the USTA Kansas league page to learn more, including how to sign up.