News Summary
The Rome Tennis Center at Berry College has been recognized with the USTA 2025 Outstanding Facility Award, marking a significant achievement in tennis facility construction and renovation. This is the second time the center has received this accolade and it is projected to generate nearly $8 million in economic impact for the local area in 2025. With plans to host over 50 tournaments next year, the center plays a vital role in promoting tourism and supporting the local economy while providing a platform for tennis excellence.
Rome has achieved a significant milestone in the world of tennis as the Rome Tennis Center at Berry College (RTCBC) has been awarded the prestigious USTA 2025 Outstanding Facility Award. This accolade, part of the USTA’s annual Outstanding Facility Awards program, honors excellence in tennis facility construction and renovation.
The RTCBC is one of the largest tennis centers in the United States, boasting 51 outdoor courts and 6 indoor courts. This recognition is particularly notable as it marks the second time the center has received this award, having also won in 2019. The RTCBC is projected to generate nearly $8 million in economic activity for Rome and Floyd County in 2025, an increase from $7.7 million in 2024.
As part of its ambitious plans, the RTCBC is expected to host over 50 tournaments in 2025, with plans to increase that number to 60 tournaments in 2026. The center’s general manager has termed the facility a “huge asset” for local tourism and economic growth, emphasizing its role in attracting visitors and promoting tennis in the community.
Improvements made at the tennis center include the addition of a “Top Spin Terrace” viewing deck, upgraded tennis nets, and enhanced wireless capabilities for vendors and live streaming services. These enhancements aim to improve the overall experience for players and spectators alike.
Local businesses have also felt the positive effects from the tournaments hosted at the RTCBC. An executive chef has reported that increased traffic from tennis events has significantly boosted business at local restaurants. According to the executive director of Georgia’s Rome Office of Tourism, tennis is the leading draw for tourism in the area, which features more than 60 tennis courts and 26 pickleball courts in total.
The RTCBC not only contributes to tourism but also supports local high school tennis programs and provides affordable court fees for residents. The center has gained recognition as a training ground, with over 70 of the 128 women who qualified for this year’s Wimbledon Women’s Singles Tournament having played at the RTCBC. This speaks volumes about the quality of the facilities and the level of play that can be found there.
Looking ahead, Rome is set to host the Division III National Tennis Championship in 2028, signaling a growing reputation for the local tennis community. The increase in tournament activity has also put a strain on local lodging facilities, with a noted shortage of hotel rooms to accommodate the influx of visitors during these events.
The facility is managed by Cliff Drysdale Tennis, an organization recognized for enhancing the RTCBC’s overall reputation and amenities. Community figures have played a pivotal role in establishing the tennis center as a key economic driver for the region, and there is a concerted community effort to identify and maximize the economic benefits stemming from the RTCBC’s events and activities.
In summary, the Rome Tennis Center at Berry College stands as a beacon for both tennis excellence and economic growth. Its impressive facilities, coupled with a robust schedule of events, continue to strengthen the local economy while nurturing the sport of tennis at all levels.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Northwest Georgia News: Rome Tennis Center Boosts Tourism
- Wikipedia: Tennis
- Coosa Valley News: Rome Tennis Center Receives Award
- Google Search: Rome Tennis Events
- Northwest Georgia News: RTCBC Earns Recognition from USTA
- Google Scholar: Rome Tennis Center
- USTA: Tennis is Big Business in Georgia’s Rome
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennis Tournaments
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
