Match point: Mississauga’s tennis scene is serving up grand slam goals

With just days until the National Bank Open men’s tennis tournament in Toronto, happening July 26 to August 7, Mississauga is the place to get excited and learn about tennis. As the City continues to invest in sports, recreation and wellness, tennis is a sport that stands out for all ages and skill levels. Its international popularity makes it a sport many love to watch, practice and play.

Tennis in Canada is a big deal. From beginners to advanced athletes to homegrown players like Bianca Andreescu, (who has a Key to the City and a street in Mississauga named after her – Andreescu Way) to Eugenie Bouchard, Leylah Fernandez and Milos Raonic, Félix Auger-Aliassime, Denis Shapovalov and Gabriel Diallo, Canadian players have found great success on the international stage, or should we say court.

For Mississauga, investing in tennis makes sense, not only from a recreation and well-being point of view, but also from an economic and social growth perspective.

Recently, in partnership with Tennis Canada and National Bank, the City opened newly renovated tennis courts at Garnetwood Park as part of the Play Your Court program with more coming.

What is tennis?

Tennis is a simple and enjoyable sport that anyone can play, whether you’re a beginner or experienced. The great thing about tennis is that no special skills are required to start. All you need is a racquet, a ball, a friend or two and comfortable shoes! Playing tennis can be a full-body workout. It burns calories, boosts endurance, sharpens focus and sparks friendly competition. It improves cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and offers so much more like:

• Mental benefits – builds quick thinking and reduces stress. The challenge of each rally keeps your mind engaged and alert.
• Social connection – tennis is a social sport about connections beyond just hitting a ball. Playing with friends or joining a local club is a great way to meet new people, enjoy friendly competition, and build lasting relationships.
• Fun and motivation – whether you’re rallying for fun or keeping score, tennis offers excitement and motivation to keep moving and improving.

Understanding the game

Tennis courts are rectangular-shaped courts. A low, mesh net runs down the centre with lines for singles and doubles games. The serving player stands behind the back line and aims to hit the ball diagonally across the court into the opponent’s box. As the ball gets hit back and forth, if it bounces twice, lands out, or isn’t returned, the other player scores a point. The game is scored using the following scoring system 15, 30, 40, and game (0 is called “love”). If players both reach 40, it’s called a deuce. To win, a player must win two consecutive points from deuce to win the game. Matches are usually best of three or five sets.

The court is calling

Mississauga has a range of tennis facilities. Whether you’re a seasoned player or picking up a racquet for the first time, you can find indoor and outdoor courts to suit your style.

The City has partnered with Tennis Everyone to provide tennis lessons for all ages and skill levels. To sign up, visit activemississauga.ca.

Currently, in Mississauga there are 162 tennis courts, 88 are public outdoor tennis courts, both lit and unlit and 74 are club courts.

Outdoor courts are located throughout City parks and select community centres. They are open to the public and provide a scenic backdrop for friendly matches and practices. They are perfect for enjoying the fresh air and sunshine during the warmer months.

Indoor courts, tennis clubs and domes are private affiliated clubs like Premier Racquet Clubs, operate indoor courts. There are fees to use indoor courts. They provide a comfortable environment, rain or shine and offer structured programs, competitive leagues, and events. An example of a tennis dome is at Churchill Meadows Community Centre and Mattamy Sports Park. 

If you are using a tennis court, please refer to the signage posted for rules, regulations, and behaviour guidelines.

Partnerships and growing the sport

Residents have access to various programs, lessons and clubs for all ages to enjoy that create an inclusive environment for all abilities. The City is looking to grow its partnerships with local clubs, schools, and community organizations to strengthen its commitment to tennis. These collaborations expand access to learning, coaching, practice, tournaments, and special events, ensuring everyone can learn, practice and play.

The City continues to invest in its 2024 Recreation Plan and 2024 Parks, Forestry and Environment Plan, which aim to increase indoor and outdoor court capacity and improve and expand programs and locations. An example is the creation of four new public multi-use tennis and pickleball courts in specific high-use areas around the City.

Game, set, love!

Whether you want to improve your fitness, enjoy a new hobby, or expand your social circle, tennis in Mississauga offers something for everyone. Grab a racquet, hit the courts, and serve it up at one of the City’s many indoor or outdoor courts and find out if tennis is right for you.

Enjoy this reel on tennis!

For more information about tennis in Mississauga, visit ActiveMississauga.ca.

Tags

• Health and Wellness
• Recreation and Sports