INDUSTRY
Thousands of players participate in Racquet War tournaments each year. 2019 Amelia Island Racquet War group pictured above.
Finally, so many tournaments have draws not make because of not enough players. We don’t have that problem with the waterfall because they always make.” By creating divisions based upon results, Racquet War becomes an option for all players to enjoy success right away. In traditional tournaments, if drawn against a tough opponent and suffering a loss, a player or teams chance to succeed is gone right away. At the same time, there is very much a competitive edge to these events, as the winners advance in their division and earn opportunities to qualify for higher ranking Racquet Wars tournaments, such as the national championship. The next element that separates Racquet War from many of tennis’ competitive alternatives is location and setting. Foy has partnered with tennis resorts and clubs around the country to provide bucket list destinations for his tournaments. Another emphasis on the experience, Racquet War offers discounted lodging options on site, as well as a kick-off clinic for all tournament participants. Finally, Racquet War has an on-site photographer at each event that provides photos for players to take home. These little details have elevated Racquet War to be at the front of mind for any active adult tennis player.
Tournament packages have allowed for couples, doubles partners, and large groups to attend these events and enjoy a trip that includes first class tennis. This, Foy says, is where the social aspect of Racquet War has been crucial in it’s growth. “The social part of our tournaments is just as important as the actual tennis tournament,” said Foy. “People are looking for an experience, a weekend getaway, to not only play tennis, but have a good time.” Racquet War tournaments have been hosted at a handful of Cliff Drysdale Tennis locations, including Omni Amelia Island Resort and Plantation, Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa and Weston Tennis Center. 2020 events are also scheduled for Walden Racquet Center, Bluewater Bay Tennis Center, and The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami. “Oakley looks at every aspect of the tournament from the eyes of a player, and what the player would want, which makes sense because Oakley is a player himself,” said Scott Colebourne, COO of Cliff Drysdale Tennis. “I think that’s the major difference between Racquet War and other tournaments is that these events really put the players first. I’m proud that CDT has played a small role in Racquet War expansion and continued growth.”
“PEOPLE ARE LOOKING FOR AN EXPERIENCE, A WEEKEND GETAWAY, TO NOT ONLY PLAY TENNIS, BUT TO HAVE A GOOD TIME.” 52
EXPERIENCE Magazine | www.ExperienceCDT.com
