Tennis programs open new complex

The Coastal Carolina men’s and women’s tennis programs are well into their 2015 home schedules in their brand new Coastal Carolina Tennis Complex.

“It goes without saying how excited we are to be here,” said men’s head coach Chris Powers, entering his 14th year with the program and 11th as the head coach. “It’s nice to be able to spread out and have the men’s and women’s programs practicing at the same time. The new courts give us a big-school feel and, once we get used to playing here, we expect to develop a home-court advantage we haven’t had before.”

The Chanticleers’ new facility consists of 12 US Open-style courts, doubling the available space the program has had in the past, surrounded by bleachers and rocking chairs for the public’s viewing pleasure. Additionally, the $2 million complex will include lighting, two LED scoreboards, a state-of-the-art speaker system, a press box, equipment storage areas, concessions, restrooms and a 3,000-square foot clubhouse with offices, lockers rooms and a lounge inside.

“The new facility is just a great improvement,” said women’s head coach Catherine Hewitt, entering her fourth year with the Chants. “I think it will definitely help with recruiting and also help us host bigger tournaments. Seeing that Coastal is in the beach area, I think we are going to attract a lot more teams.”

Although the venue may have changed, the teams’ mindsets certainly haven’t and they still have that ultimate goal in mind.

“I think this might be the best facility in the league, but our vision every year is to compete for a Big South Championship and we’re looking for bigger things,” Powers said. “We want to work our way into national rankings and get big-time schools here. I think these guys and girls will be as excited to play tennis as they’ve ever been.”