TENNIS AUSTRALIA Media Release - Tuesday, 26 July 2005

NEXT GENERATION HARDCOURTS WINS FACILITIES AWARD

The Next Generation Hardcourts has been given a resounding thumbs-up by the ATP, governing body of the men’s pro tennis Tour. The tournament, which returned to Tennis Australia’s management last year with new sponsor Next Generation Clubs Australia on board, was given the International Group Facilities Award for Excellence in Facility Presentation.

“This is a great honour,” said Peter Johnston, co-tournament director of the $US419,000 event. “We are absolutely thrilled to have been chosen in our first year running the tournament.”

The Next Generation Hardcourts won the award over a dozen tournaments in the International Group, including prestigious events in Dubai, Moscow and Bangkok.

The Adelaide tournament, held in the first week of January, was headlined by Australian No.1 Lleyton Hewitt in 2005 and received plaudits for its player and public-friendly facility.

Run at historic Memorial Drive, Adelaide, along the Torrens River, the new sponsorship enables players and public to use facilities at Next generation’s lifestyle and fitness club, within lobbing distance of Centre Court.

“Players love the Next generation link,” said Johnston. “They can use the recovery facilities, gym, great café, indoor and outdoor pools and plenty of practice courts.”

“The venue is a short distance from the official hotel, the Hyatt, which is just across the river and the Rebound Ace courts were resurfaced in line with Australian Open conditions.”

The public embraced the new precinct’s Garden Square and food court situated at the Next Generation Club, close to newly erected stands on the outside courts, which allowed for up-close viewing. Night sessions were again a huge hit with fans.