Koch Tennis Center Kicks off Fundraiser to Replace Aging Courts

Originally built 25 years ago, the Koch Family Tennis Center is crucial to tennis playing in Nebraska. It is the site for state high school tennis tournaments and invites, USTA tournaments, Missouri Valley juniors and adults, sectionals and national leagues competitions, Special Olympic events, college team practice and more.

However, over the years the courts are in need of repair. In addition to cracks and uneven surfaces, there is water damage, drainage issues and peeling surfaces. In addition, the restrooms need to be updated and spectator seating is inadequate.

The Omaha Tennis Association kicked off a fundraising drive to help pay for the renovation of 24 courts. Total renovation costs are estimated at $4 million.

The Omaha Tennis Association kicked off a fundraising drive to help pay for the renovation of 24 courts. Total renovation costs are estimated at $4 million.

“The total renovation of 24 courts is estimated at approaching $4 million,” said Tracy Wright of the OTA. “The City of Omaha has allocated approximately $1 million for the complete replacement of the first six courts to be completed by summer ‘23.”

Wright said the fundraising goal is to match the city’s $1 million this year, and each of the next two years to replace the remaining courts and provide aesthetic upgrades.

“It’s imperative we renovate Koch quickly, the city is renovating six courts, but we need to renovate 18 more,” said Lisa Thomas, who plays in numerous adult leagues in Omaha. “If you go out to Koch on a summer night, almost every court is full.  Where will these players go if the courts stay unplayable? Koch is a beautiful tennis facility, it just needs to renovate quickly so it can become the award winner it once was.”

In 2003 and 2013, the USTA named Koch its National Facility of the Year. This was based on the condition and unique layout of the facility, as well as its ability to host regional and national level events. Currently the City of Omaha and OTA maintain the facility.

For more information on how you can donate, click on this link: https://omahatennis.org/koch/