Park and Recreation Month Feature: The Highlands

July has been designated as Park and Recreation Month in the U.S. by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). The USTA and NRPA announced a partnership to support healthier communities, which is in line with the USTA’s recently adopted mission statement. To celebrate this collaboration and Park and Recreation Month, USTA St. Louis is featuring The Highlands Golf & Tennis Center within historic Forest Park.

July is National Park and Recreation Month, which means it’s a great time to unplug and appreciate all the facilities your local park has to offer. These spaces foster community, encourage healthy lifestyles and offer a place to de-stress after a long day.

Local parks are vital hubs within the tennis community, as 49 percent of USTA Missouri Valley tennis players prefer to get their game in at public parks according to an annual study. In the heart of St. Louis is Highlands Golf & Tennis Center. These Forest Park courts are surrounded by lush greenery and beautifully manicured golf courses. Featuring clay courts, experienced tennis pros and member-only events, The Highlands provides a top-of-the-line tennis experience for the St. Louis community.

The Highlands offers 13 clay courts, which are the only public clay courts in St. Louis. Three of them have lights for nighttime practice and play. Playing on clay is a unique experience since the ground is softer, there is a different bounce than hardcourts and balls can stay in play longer. This special feature draws tennis lovers from all over USTA St. Louis.

The club has added new conveniences that have enhanced the playing experience. A ball machine is available to members to reserve as well as a leaf blower to clear the courts. Additional lighting has been added to the courts for brighter play, and the tennis center has recently been refreshed.

The club offers a monthly membership as well as an individual season pass and family season pass. This membership comes with perks like the capability to reserve courts in advance, complimentary clinics, discounted admission to club-sponsored events and more. Check out The Highlands website for more details regarding membership options.

For players of all ages and skill levels, The Highlands offers various group clinics. They are conducted daily, ranging from junior tennis camps to high-level adult drills. Group lessons help hone your skillset and form your tennis community. More information regarding program schedules can be found on The Highlands website.

There are a plethora of social events and tournaments for tennis members. If you are looking to sharpen your game and meet new friendly faces, click here for a full event schedule and registration. The Highlands has hosted such organizations as local nonprofit Breakpoint Tennis & Life Skills Academy for community-centered programming.

Break up the routine and compete on clay courts, attend social play offerings or grab dinner at the restaurant. Stay in the loop on The Highlands updates and join their newsletter by contacting them at tennisrep@highlandsswim.org. Drop by the club and celebrate National Park and Recreation Month!

To read a previously published USTA St. Louis story on The Highlands, click here.