USTA pro circuit stop scheduled for Sept. 16

A $10,000 USTA Professional Circuit event, the Diadora Pro

Championships, will take place at the Costa Mesa Tennis Center Sept.

16-22.

A “Futures” level professional men’s tournament, it is part of the

U.S. Tennis Association’s plan to create more opportunities for

American professional hopefuls.

Each participant in the Main Draw of the event will receive at

least one ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) point toward an

international ranking.

Those winning the event will soon be eligible for the “Challenger”

level events which had prize monies over $50,000 and are just one

step away from the U.S. Open.

Tournament Director Hank Lloyd will host the event, as well as a

similar event in November.

“Although more than 50% of the draw will be international players,

this tournament will allow our guys (Americans) to get a shot where

they have the ‘home court advantage.’ ”

There are 33 men’s “Futures” events in the United States, and

about 350 worldwide.

Lloyd is encouraging the community to support local players.

Admission is free with ample seating.

There are several events tied to the tournament, including a

Ladies League Doubles Extravaganza on Sept. 11.

Women may sign up with our without a partner and a $5 donation to

the Orange County Community Tennis Association will be taken at the

site.

On Sept. 15, from noon-2 p.m., the Volkl Demo Day is free to the

public and offers games and prizes.

A pro-am is set for Sept. 16 from 4-6 p.m.

Also planned:

* A four-hour ladies doubles tournament clinic on Sept. 11,

starting at 8:30 a.m., featuring pro Phil Dent, Syd Ball, Tim Pawsat,

Debbie Graham, Elliott Telscher and Lloyd.

* A two-hour, free clinic in conjuction with the men’s

championship, starting at noon on Sept. 11, featuring tour players

and the Costa Mesa TC staff.

* A pro-am doubles event for locals to get the opportunity to

play with the touring pros for the afternoon, starting at 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 16.

For more information, contact the Costa Mesa Tennis Center at

(714) 557-0211.