This season, Warrior tennis teams are serving up excitement with the opening of the new Coach Rocco A. Cona Tennis Complex. Complete with a sophisticated drainage system, modern aesthetics, and a more strategic location, the courts have boosted team spirit and fan support.
The old courts suffered from poor drainage, making the area swampy after rain and disrupting play. “We thought if we were going to redo the courts, let’s address the drainage issues once and for all,” said Mr. Hassman, Athletics Director. “We opted to invest more and relocate the courts to the best possible spot,” Mr. Hassman said.
Five new courts have been relocated to the upper grounds near student parking, behind the residential homes on Wyoga Lake Road. The new setup splits the courts, with three in the back and two prominently placed in the front. This contrasts with the old row arrangement. This new layout improves the visual appeal and enhances accessibility for spectators, making it easier for friends and families to cheer on the teams.
Junior Alex Behm appreciates the new courts, noting, “The new courts are way better than the old ones, mainly because they’re just so nice and new. Even after they age, they’ll still be better because they aren’t near the swampy area by the baseball diamond. Plus, the old courts had cracks that caused problems.”
Junior Lauren Stephens shared this feeling, happy about how close they are to the school. “They are amazing! It’s really nice to have courts close to the school. This is a huge plus for fans, and I also love how the new courts don’t have any cracks. The cracks made my serves and volleys a bit wonky,” she said.
The courts were officially opened in the last week of July 2023 but were recently dedicated to Coach Rocco Cona, who has led the program for three decades. The dedication ceremony was the perfect tribute to his longstanding commitment. Many supporters of the tennis program attended the grand opening and blessing of the courts on April 29 this year.
The relocation of the tennis courts has also paved the way for another significant improvement. The old courts will be resurfaced and converted into 120 new parking spaces, primarily serving the baseball diamond. This change will alleviate parking constraints during games and further enhance the school’s athletic facilities.
Reflecting on the new facilities, junior Lauren Stephens shared her thoughts on what the new complex means for the future of Walsh Jesuit tennis: “These new courts show the school’s commitment to our sport and to providing us with the facilities we need to succeed and be our best.”
