The 22nd Annual Dow Corning Tennis Classic is February 7-14
Hosted by the Midland Community Tennis Center,
January 22, 2010
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By: MyBayCity Staff
Dates for the 22nd running of the Dow Corning Tennis Classic, hosted by the Midland Community Tennis Center, were announced today by Mike Woody, executive director of the Tournament.
Main draw action is scheduled February 7-14, with qualifying rounds February 7-9. This weekend, the Go To Transport Inc. Wildcard Challenge for players across the state will send the winner to the main qualifier.
The tournament has traditionally been a venue for rising stars, including Grand Slam Singles Champions Maria Sharapova, Anastasia Myskina, Justin Henin and Mary Pierce, all of whom played the event early in their careers. Additionally, one out of every four in the top 100 has played Midland. And numerous players are Grand Slam Doubles Champions.
"For the fans, it's like star search," said Woody. "This is where you'll find the young players destined for the big time. Each year, there are always two or three, and the crowd loves to pick'em"
Another attraction is the international flavor of the participants with about 64 players from four continents, 20 nations, speaking nine languages, expected to compete over eight days, as well as visit schools and local organizations.
The USTA approved a $100,000 purse for the tournament, the first on the 102-stop Tour, Woody said, pointing out that fans can expect a higher level of play, more depth in the draw and more close matches.
?We have unprecedented interest this year from corporate sponsors, and we?re expecting record crowds since, following a national email ballot, the USTA named Midland, Michigan America?s Best Tennis Town, Woody said.
With 12 outreach programs, students will hear from these professionals about the pursuit of excellence, cultural diversity and commitment to a dream, and that's an important part of the event.
New dining options for the expected 15,000 fans will locate Grand Slam Dining, catered by local restaurants, on Court # 11, with Aces Dining and upgraded Concession Food on Court #6. The popular Dueling Piano concert returns Saturday, February 13, following the evening matches.
Although west side box seats are sold out, tickets are available for east side box seats, Club and General Admission.
For ticket information, call the MCTC-989-631-6151 or go to
http://www.dowcorningtennisclassic.com
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