Temple Terrace Open Returns: The Temple Terrace Open is set to return on March 29 at the Hard-Court Tennis Center, bringing players of all skill levels together for a day of competitive and recreational play. The Temple Terrace Pickleball Club and the Tampa East Sertoma Club have partnered for the first time to host the event. Registration is open until March 22.
A Growing Tournament and New Partnership
This year marks the third edition of the Temple Terrace Open, which aims to accommodate both serious competitors and casual participants. The tournament will feature men’s and women’s singles and doubles, as well as mixed doubles. For those new to the sport, one court will be dedicated to open-play sessions, where beginners can receive instruction from experienced players.
The Tampa East Sertoma Club, a nonprofit organization that has raised over $2.5 million for local causes, is contributing to the tournament’s success. Jim Weiss of Sertoma proposed the idea of incorporating pickleball into the club’s events after learning about the local pickleball community.
“We do the fundraising stuff, and they do all of the tournament stuff,”. Proceeds from the event will benefit local charities, continuing Sertoma’s commitment to supporting the community.(Jim Weiss)
Tournament Features and Court Expansion
Beyond the matches, participants and spectators can enjoy food trucks, vendor booths, raffles, and giveaways from Selkirk, a popular pickleball equipment brand. Winners will receive T-shirts, trophies, and medals.
Temple Terrace currently lacks dedicated pickleball courts, but improvements have been made at the Hard-Court Tennis Center. Three of the six courts now feature permanently painted pickleball lines, although players must bring their own nets. To address this issue, the Temple Terrace Pickleball Club purchased a $2,000 Selkirk net, and the Sertoma Club is donating three additional nets, allowing for expanded play beyond the tournament.
Wagner expressed optimism about the sport’s future in Temple Terrace, citing its rapid growth and increasing demand for facilities.
“We now have three permanently painted courts, which is fantastic, but it has always been a bring-your-own-net type of facility,” ( Tom Wagner).
Looking Ahead: Expanding Pickleball in Temple Terrace
The Temple Terrace Pickleball Club has grown steadily since its founding in 2016, with 288 members using the TeamReach app and an additional 229 following its Facebook page. Play is also increasing at the Family Recreation Center, where indoor and outdoor courts are available.
Temple Terrace has tentative plans to build eight to 12 dedicated pickleball courts at the Hard-Court Tennis Center within the next four to six years. Wagner hopes that the success of the Temple Terrace Open will accelerate these plans and further establish the city as a pickleball destination.
“It’s still growing,”. “It isn’t slowing down.”( Tom Wagner)
News in Brief: Temple Terrace Open Returns
The Temple Terrace Open, set for March 29, will feature singles, doubles, and mixed doubles matches. Hosted by the Temple Terrace Pickleball Club and Tampa East Sertoma Club, the tournament aims to support local charities while growing the sport. New courts and nets will enhance play, with plans for future expansion in Temple Terrace.
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