Leesburg tennis player John Mook has long been on a journey across the state for tournaments. In 2022, the U.S. Tennis Association Foundation's proposal to open a top-notch tennis facility near his Loudoun County home was a game-changer. That proposal turned into a plan in April when the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors gave the green light. This new facility is set to be completed by 2028 and will be a game-changer for Northern Virginia.

Revolutionizing Tennis in Northern Virginia

Tennis Comes Home to Leesburg

Leesburg tennis player John Mook spends a significant amount of time driving to tournaments. The 2022 U.S. Tennis Association Foundation proposal to open a world-class facility near his home was a dream come true. The plan was approved in April, and construction is set to begin in late 2025. This facility will have over 30 tennis courts and 20 pickleball courts, making it first-in-class for the region.Mook, a level 5.0-rated player, has been swinging a racket since age 6. He was a champion varsity player at Potomac Falls High School and a two-time All-American at Christopher Newport University. He often drives long distances for matches and tournaments, competing against players from his own backyard. Having a local facility will be a game-changer for him and other players.

A Win for Loudoun County

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation CEO Tara Fitzpatrick-Navarro noticed the lack of places to play when she joined 10 years ago. The organization operates a large adult league, and championship tournaments require a large-scale facility. Currently, the USTA Mid-Atlantic section has over 30,000 members, but competitions are spread over multiple venues.They initially eyed land near George Mason University in Prince William County, but plans were tabled due to size limitations. USTA data shows tennis growing in popularity, with over 2.7 million active and interested players in the mid-Atlantic region. Loudoun County's Department of Economic Development, specifically executive director Buddy Rizer, made it happen by incorporating the USTA into an overall vision that aligned with their needs.Once completed, the 246-acre Village at Clear Springs mixed housing development will have nearly 1,100 homes. The proximity to two airports, major roads, and abundant lodging and dining venues makes it an accessible location.

Making Tennis Inclusive

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation COO Beth Twomey believes in making tennis inclusive. A public facility allows them to broaden the base of players. The mid-Atlantic campus will be open to the public, regardless of USTA membership. Village at Clear Springs residents will receive privileges through their homeowners association dues.Twomey emphasizes the physical, mental, and social benefits of tennis. Playing just three hours per week can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 56 percent. Tennis players add 9.7 years to their lives compared to sedentary individuals.Rizer is impressed by USTA leadership's commitment to making tennis accessible to everyone. He appreciates their efforts to connect with local Title 1 schools.

Economic Impact

The Mid-Atlantic Foundation estimates that the tennis campus project will cost $42 million and generate $8.5 million annually in economic impact. It is expected to be used by over 158,000 people each year, including over 12,000 special event attendees. It will generate approximately $5 million in visitor spending annually and $395,675 in net tax revenue per year.The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation invested $10 million in the project and is seeking funding partners. Aggregate Sports is helping sell naming rights and sponsorship packages.In July, Hines acquired the Village at Clear Springs property and will continue with the tennis campus plans. Andrew McGeorge believes it will be a significant positive influence on the community.Fitzpatrick is excited to work with Hines and watch players use the courts. She wants to see kids playing tennis with their parents and inspiring the next generation.This tennis campus is an important addition to Leesburg, offering a health and recreational amenity for all citizens. It is proven to have numerous benefits and will contribute to the economic growth of the area.