USTA Missouri Set for Fun Season of Mixed Leagues

“The mixed leagues have drawn a lot of attention and excitement,” said Leslie Echols, USTA Missouri executive director. “They continue to grow. The enthusiasm around mixed leagues was part of the inspiration for the One Night Mixed Doubles tournaments we’ve been having this year, which have also been really popular.”

Echols helped revitalize adult mixed leagues in the district two years ago during her time as USTA Missouri adult league coordinator. After a strong initial season, Echols said the number of participants “exploded” last year as word got out about the offerings. The addition of 55 & Over offerings plus 6.0-level divisions aided in the growth. The high level of interest prompted Echols to form flex leagues in the winter.

“There were a few years where we didn’t have mixed leagues in the district, so maybe that has added to the excitement of having them back,” Echols said. “This year I’m anticipating still more growth, so that’s exciting.”

Echols hopes to continue to expand the age divisions and playing levels within those divisions this year in Springfield. Cooper Tennis Complex will play host to USTA Missouri mixed leagues every night on Monday through Thursday, a testament to the strength and quality of those leagues. This setup enables competitors to join multiple leagues if they desire.

“The women particularly enjoy mixed leagues because it gives them an opportunity to try to return hard serves and play more competitively,” Echols said. “Especially for our really competitive women, being on the court with competitive guys is a lot of fun for them. Of course there are a few couples who play, but for the most part it’s not. It’s just people, and it’s fun.”

District playoffs will take place in Springfield. The 18+ leagues have theirs August 12, while the 40+ leagues have theirs August 13. At the 55+ level, districts are on October 8. For the full mixed schedule complete with deadlines for captains, click here. If you need more information or have any questions, Echols can be reached at ustamissouridirector@gmail.com.

Echols was part of a USTA Missouri 7.0 mixed team captained by Hee-Sun Kim that made a remarkable run to qualify for USTA Nationals this past fall. She’s excited to see if mixed teams from Springfield or Columbia can replicate that result in 2023.

“That was a big boost for the district in showing we are competitive at the section level,” Echols said. “Hopefully we’ll have a strong showing again this year with some of these leagues. I’m looking forward to it. We have great mixed players. I’m excited to see how far we advance this year.”