Leeper Park attracting new players

by Pete Byrne (pmbyrne@wsbt.com)

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By WSBT Sports

Story Created: Jul 1, 2008 at 3:31 PM EST

Story Updated: Jul 2, 2008 at 4:14 PM EST

SOUTH BEND -- Michiana tennis enthusiasts have a new pace to play this summer! Or at least, it feels like new.

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After a face-lift years overdue, the Leeper Park tennis courts have transformed from shotty, to state of the art!

"The previous facility was here for 29 years. There were cracks on every court severe enough to alter play," said Chuck Shock, director of tennis at Leeper Park. "They came in last July and tore everything out, and made it according to USTA standards ... put in new lights, new fencing. The whole facility in brand new!"

Leeper Park is attracting a new, local interest in the sport. Kids of all ages are taking advantage of the youth programs. The South Bend metro tournament begins this weekend. Perhaps the most encouraging for Shock is that the new facility is helping to grow the game.

"One night last week I was playing at 7:00, and every court was in use!" he recalls. "That's the first time I've seen that in 25 years! So, we're seeing more play."

And by the looks of things ... it will be busy, for a long time!

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