High School Tennis courts open public

FARMINGTON - Tennis anyone?

Construction on the new and very blue tennis courts on the Mt. Blue Campus are now open to the public for play. The high school's three-year construction project was completed in time for the fall semester and included in the design were four tennis courts. A fifth court was made possible, thanks to local donations by tennis team supporters and the players themselves, who held fund raising events over the years, said Coach Judy Upham.

On a breezy afternoon this week, Maureen Cyr's physical education class was out on the new courts getting a good workout. The courts opening for play this semester "brought a lot of excitement, " Cyr said and gives students another sport to participate in and experience.

For the members of the boys and girls tennis teams, there is much to celebrate.

The new courts at the high school will give Mt. Blue's teams a home court advantage in the spring for the first time since the tennis team was first established nearly 15 years ago. Formerly, the teams traveled after school for practice at Farmington's Hippach Field, to Wilton's courts in Kineowatha Park and at Academy Hill School. Home games were played in Wilton.

Players said they will save on gas not having to leave school and on time so practice can begin sooner.

"We don't have to worry about being on time, " said senior team member Chelsea Welch. Her teammate Courtney Melville added she's looking forward to having matches right on campus. It was also make it easier for fellow students to see the matches here.

The teams are very grateful to the Wilton and Farmington recreation departments for use of the town courts over the years, Upham said.

She noted the courts are open for public use after school and on weekends on a first come, first serve basis.

Both Upham and Coach Stan Kuklinski are planning a special event in the spring to officially recognize the patrons, former players, former coaches and volunteers who have contributed to the program over the years.