Charleston Named One of Three Finalists Vying for ‘Top Tennis Town’!

UPDATE: Charleston, SC has been chosen as one of the Top 3 Finalists for the Top Tennis Town! The Grand Prize winner will be named the “2010 Best Tennis Town” and will receive $100,000 to be used for tennis programming and facility enhancements. The announcement will be made at this year’s US Open (August 30 – September 12).

There’s never been any doubt that Charleston is an active, sports-loving city. Residents have easy access to golfing, water sports, professional sports teams and more. And now Charleston is being recognized as one of the top tennis destinations in the country!

The USTA has selected Charleston as a finalist in the “2010 Best Tennis Town” competition, and now it’s up to residents, visitors and friends of the ‘Holy City’ to help win the title!

The winner will be determined by a nationwide online vote at www.besttennistown.com that will be active until July 26th at 11:59 a.m. The Grand Prize, 2nd and 3rd place winners will be announced at this year’s US Open. The winning city will be awarded $100,000 to be used for tennis programming or facility enhancements community wide.

Daniel Island’s own Family Circle Tennis Center has played a large role in creating Charleston’s strong tennis reputation. Ten years ago, the Family Circle Cup made the move from Hilton Head Island to Daniel Island, bringing with it a staff of professional instructors, a new top-notch tennis facility and an annual professional women’s tournament that has brought the world’s top players and tennis fanatics to Charleston each spring.

Train and the Black Crowes Come To Daniel Island!

The Family Circle Tennis Center’s 2010 summer concert series is winding down for the season but it isn’t over yet!

Take a look below at the amazing line-up below and purchase your tickets today!

Train | August 26 | www.trainline.com

Grammy Award-winning rock band Train will make their Family Circle Stadium debut on Thursday, August 26th.

Train has made its mark on music history for more than 15 years. With wildly popular singles like “Drops of Jupiter”, “Meet Virginia” and “Calling All Angels”, they have earned legions of fans around the globe.

In 2009, Train released its most successful chart-topping single “Hey, Soul Sister” which reached #1 on the U.S. Billboard Digital Hot 100, their highest position on the chart to date, #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and #1 in the U.S. iTunes music store.

Local South Carolina band NeedToBreathe will open the show.

The Black Crowes | September 10 | www.blackcrowes.com

The Black Crowes will appear in Charleston as part of their “Say Goodnight to the Bad Guys” 2010 Tour this summer. The shows are being billed as “Acoustic Hor D’oeuvres followed by an Electric Reception With The Black Crowes,” and will consist of a full hour and a half acoustic set followed by a full hour and a half electric set.

Family Circle Cup Draws Record Crowds for 10th Year on Daniel Island

Attracted by a star-studded line-up and spectacular springtime weather, more than 95,000 tennis fans came out to Daniel Island last week to experience one of the WTA’s Premier Events. It was a record attendance for the Family Circle Cup since moving to its home on Daniel Island ten years ago.

On the courts, the competition was fierce, with the tournament’s number one seed (and World No. 2) Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark losing in the semifinals to Vera Zvonareva (World No. 22) of Russia.

World No. 22 Vera Zvonareva and 2010 Family Circle Cup Champion Sam Stosur

Zvonareva faced Australian Samantha Stosur (World No. 11) in the finals, with Stosur capturing the title — just the second championship of her career. The action was broadcast live to a national television audience by ESPN2.

Saturday night, thousands of lucky fans cheered on tennis legends John McEnroe and Jim Courier in an intense exhibition match that went into a tiebreaker before McEnroe emerged as the winner. Afterwards, the pair was joined by Monica Seles and Anna Kournikova for a lively set of mixed doubles. In between, the crowd enjoyed live music by the Blue Dogs, one of Charleston’s favorite bands. The event, called “Game, Set, Rock. Tennis. Amplified.”, was a celebration recognizing the tournament’s ten years in Charleston.

Tennis Superstars John McEnroe and Anna Kournikova at Game.Set.Rock!

There were smiles all around throughout the entire week on the Family Circle Tennis Center grounds as spectators enjoyed a wide range of special activities and events, including tennis clinics, celebrity and player appearances, live music, shopping, health and fitness demonstrations and an endless assortment of food and beverage options.

Our congratulations and thanks go out to the Family Circle Cup staff – and the hundreds of hard-working volunteers – for pulling off yet another spectacular week of world-class tennis and entertainment on Daniel Island.

Check out more photos of the 2010 Family Circle Cup below!

Beautiful Weather & Great Tennis at the Family Circle Cup!

The weather in Charleston could not be more perfect for the Family Circle Cup! With temperatures on Daniel Island in the mid-70s, light breezes and everything in bloom, it’s an ideal setting for enjoying some fantastic competitive tennis.

After an exciting weekend of qualifying matches, the first round of the Family Circle Cup kicked off on Monday to record-breaking attendance for the first day of the tournament!

Two of the tournament’s seeded and most closely watched players had successful first days. Alona Bondarenko (UKR) and Aleksandra Wozniak (CAN) both moved through to the second round of the Premier-level tournament in straight sets.

As of Tuesday afternoon, fan-favorite Patty Schnyder (SUI) had defeated Chanelle Scheepers (RSA) 3-6, 6-2, 6-4. Schnyder, the only player to have played in all ten Family Circle Cup tournaments held on Daniel Island, has hinted that this could be one of her last appearances at the Family Circle Cup. Make sure to cheer for her this week as she continues her pursuit of the title! Former world No. 1 Jelena Jankovic and Melanie Oudin will begin their quest for the Family Circle title late Tuesday afternoon.

If the forecasts are correct, it looks like the weather is going to stay springlike and comfortable for the remainder of the tournament, so get outside, cheer on the players and take advantage of all of the fun happening at the Family Circle Tennis Center this week and weekend!

In other exciting tournament-related news, the folks at the Family Circle Cup announced today that Monica Seles will be participating in the star-studded Game.Set.Rock! Tennis Amplified event this Saturday night. The former World No. 1, nine-time Grand Slam champion (and Family Circle Cup finalist in 1997) will join John McEnroe, Jim Courier and Anna Kournikova for an evening of tennis and musical entertainment provided by local favorites, the Blue Dogs. This special event celebrates the tournament’s ten-year anniversary in Charleston. For more information on Game.Set.Rock!, click HERE.

Daniel Island Resident Shelby Rogers Is Ready To Serve!

Each year the Family Circle Cup brings the top professional female tennis players to Daniel Island from across the globe. But this year, one competitor won’t have to travel very far at all… In fact, 17 year-old Shelby Rogers can hop on her bicycle and ride over to the Family Circle Tennis Center from her home in Daniel Island Park if she wants!

A Daniel Island resident since 2004, Shelby first picked up a tennis racket when she was four years old in an attempt to be just like her mentor and older sister, Sabra. When she was eight, she began training at the tennis academy at the Family Circle Tennis Center. That same year, she had the opportunity to serve as a ball girl at the first-ever Family Circle Cup on Daniel Island, and the honor of handing Jennifer Capriati flowers following her win.

“I think it was really at that moment,” recalled Shelby, “that I decided I wanted to be in Capriati’s place. And I’ve been working and striving for that ever since then.”

This Saturday, April 10 Shelby will continue that dream in her first appearance as a player at the Family Circle Cup. A SMASH tournament win guaranteed her a wild card entry into the qualifying rounds this weekend. She’ll need two match wins to move ahead in the tournament.

Fortunately Shelby has something that the other players don’t – home court advantage! “Having my friends and family around me will definitely be a positive experience,” said Shelby. “It’s great to be able to play off the crowd. And I know the courts at the tennis center pretty well, which doesn’t hurt.”

Shelby’s last several weeks have been focused on intense training and practice with the help her longtime coach Bryan Minton, a former College of Charleston player and graduate who has been coaching Shelby since she was eight years old. For six hours a day, the duo has worked on Shelby’s tennis game, fitting in weight training and her online school schedule during her “off” hours.

Shelby moved with her family from Mt. Pleasant to Daniel Island almost six years ago. As residents of Daniel Island Park, they enjoy access to the Daniel Island Club’s tennis facilities, including Charleston’s only grass court. “Grass is a lot of fun to play on,” said Shelby. “The ball moves faster, and you have to be more creative and hit some big serves, but it’s fun.”

A high school senior, Shelby takes her classes online. “Online school is really great for me,” she said. “I can take the work with me when I travel to tournaments. It’s really flexible and convenient.” Set to graduate this June, she’s decided to take a year off before going to college to work on her game and play in more tournaments.

As for this weekend’s competition, her coach Bryan thinks she’s up to the challenge. “As long as she’s relaxed and having fun, Shelby will do great. She’s got a great mindset and she’s done the hard work. Now it’s time to put that hard work to play!”

UPDATE: Though she lost her match on Saturday to Christina McHale (6-4, 3-6, 6-1), Shelby did not disappoint the large crowd that came to cheer her on at the Althea Gibson Club Court. She played a great match against McHale, who’s more experience playing in professional tournaments helped her defeat the Daniel Island resident. And even though her time at the 2010 Family Circle Cup is over, Shelby Rogers is just getting started on the professional circuit so keep your eyes open for her!

Game, Set, Rock! Tennis. Ampliefied.

The countdown to this year’s Family Circle Cup is underway, and the anticipation and excitement can be felt throughout Daniel Island. In celebration of the tournament’s ten years in Charleston, organizers at the Family Circle Cup have some surprises in store this year, including Game, Set, Rock! Tennis. Amplified., a special night of music and tennis entertainment!

On Saturday evening, April 17, tennis celebrities John McEnroe, Jim Courier, Monica Seles and Anna Kournikova will showcase their skills in singles and mixed doubles exhibition sessions at the Family Circle Tennis Center. The Blue Dogs, Charleston’s favorite country, bluegrass and roots-rocks sons, will be on hand to entertain the crowd throughout the event, and will end the evening with a special performance at the Family Circle Magazine Stadium.

“The Family Circle Cup is all about world class tennis. We are going to give it our best to match that level of excitement because the fans on Daniel Island expect top notch action,” said John McEnroe. “It’s going to be a great Saturday night in Charleston!”

Tickets for this exciting night of tennis are available at Ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster Charge-by-Phone (800) 745-3000, local Publix outlets, and at the Family Circle Tennis Center ticket office weekdays from Monday through Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm. Box Level seating will be available for $35, Terrace Level for $25, and Grandstand for $15.

For more information on the Family Circle Cup, taking place April 10 – 18, click HERE.

Volunteers Needed for the 2010 Family Circle Cup

In just three months, thousands will descend upon Daniel Island for the Family Circle Cup. In its 10-years on Daniel Island, the Family Circle Cup has become a favorite event among those involved in women’s professional tennis.

And in anticipation of this year’s tournament, the Family Circle Tennis Center has begun its search for the more than 500 volunteers needed for the weeklong event, taking place April 10-18, 2010.

Approximately 375 adult volunteer positions are available, as well as 175 adult and junior Ball Crew members, with a strong need for adult Ball Crew members.

“The success of the Family Circle Cup is built on the selfless contributions of our volunteers who place such an important role in the presentation of this world-class event,” said Eleanor Adams, Family Circle Cup Tournament Manager. “Their genuine Southern hospitality and outgoing personalities are a big part of why this tournament is so special.”

A good portion of the tournament’s pool of volunteers and temporary staff are island residents, who are proud to have this world-class event take place in their hometown and take pride in the fact that their contributions go a long way towards making the tournament a success.

“The hard work and dedication put forth by our volunteer base is amazing,” commented Jo Cooper, Family Circle Cup Volunteer Coordinator and Daniel Island resident. “When you pair the excitement of first-time volunteers with the experience of our veterans, it’s no wonder the event runs so smoothly.”

Take a look at the photo gallery below and meet some of last year’s volunteers, many of whom have been involved for years and will likely return for the 2010 Family Circle Cup.

There’s an assortment of volunteer opportunities available for the 2010 Family Circle Cup, sure to keep new and returning volunteers energized and busy throughout the tournament.

For more information about adult volunteerism, contact Jo Cooper at Jo.cooper@familycirclecup.com or leave a message at (843) 849-5309.

For more information about joining the Ball Crew, contact Dan Tumbleston at tumbled@knology or (843)367-0279.

Visit www.familycirclecup.com for additional information about the 2010 Family Circle Cup or to purchase tickets.

Island Residents Help Make Family Circle Cup a Success

Pulling off a week-long tennis tournament that attracts players and visitors from around the world is not an easy task. Each year approximately 550 volunteers sign up to assist with everything from ticket sales, guest services and transportation to assisting players, maintaining the Family Circle Tennis Center’s 17 courts and providing assistance to the media. The ball crew alone consists of 200 specially-trained volunteers!

A good portion of the tournament’s pool of volunteers and temporary staff are island residents, who are proud to have this world-class event take place in their hometown and take pride in the fact that their contributions go a long way towards making the tournament a success. Despite long hours and some late nights, they enjoy the experience and many come back year after year. We caught up with a few of them to learn about their experience. You can meet some of them below:

More Than Just Tennis!

Driving over the Wando River Bridge on I-526, drivers can view the skyboxes, banners and tents at the Family Circle Tennis Center, all signs that the 2009 Family Circle Cup is almost here! Workers and volunteers are hard at work, preparing for the thousands of people coming to Daniel Island next week to see some of the tennis’ top female players in the world!

And Family Circle is ready! With a full week of competitive tennis, great events and fun activities, there really is something for everyone. We’ve put together a list of some things happening at the Family Circle Tennis Center, as well as downtown Charleston.

Easter Egg Hunt
Sunday | April 12 | 1:30 pm (registration) 2:00 pm (Hunt begins)
Come over to the Family Circle Stadium to ring in spring with a good ole’ fashioned Egg Hunt! This event is FREE to the public!

Lacoste Fashion Show (King Street, Downtown Charleston)
Monday | April 13 | 6:00 pm
The Family Circle Cup is kicked off in style with a runway show on historic King Street, and admission is FREE to the public! Enjoy the fun colors and music as local students showcase Lacoste’s latest spring looks for men and women.

Celebrity Radio DJ Brooke Ryan emceed last year’s fashion show.

Match Point Market
Monday – Sunday | April 12 – 19
Fans can take a break from the on-court action and take advantage of Match Point Market, where they can pick up some clothes, gifts, souvenirs and more.

The Post & Courier’s Girls Night Out
Tuesday | April 14
Hang out with the coolest chicks in town! Get your mom, sisters and girlfriends together for an evening of fun and tennis. Tickets for this special Tuesday Night promotion are ½ price for all women.

Garnier Nutritioniste “Winning in Doubles” Luncheon
Tuesday | April 14 | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Garnier Nutritioniste brings you the chance to join top Sony Ericsson WTA Tour doubles players as they offer advice and tips on how to succeed in doubles. Luncheon tickets are $45 each and include lunch, strategy presentation, Q&A, autograph session and a special gift. Please note: A ticket for the Tuesday Day Session is required for entry to the facility. A separate ticket for the luncheon is required.

USTA Member Appreciation Day
Wednesday | April 15 | 1:30 – 3:00 pm
USTA members are invited to join us for a private member reception hosted by the USTA Southern Section in the Family Circle Hospitality Tent. Come enjoy free refreshments and gifts. *Also, USTA members receive a $10 discount on all session tickets Monday, April 13 – Wednesday, April 15.

The Post & Courier’s Family Night
Wednesday | April 15 | 4:00 – 7:00 pm
The Post & Courier invites kids 16 and under for free admission on Wednesday Night when accompanied by an adult and adult tickets are only $10 each! Special activities include court fun, autograph sessions, prizes and more.

Center for Women 125Center for Women Luncheon
Thursday | April 16 | Noon – 2:00 pm
Spend a Day Session in the Family Circle Sky Suite with a catered lunch. A Luncheon Buffet, Official Tournament Program and Parking Pass are included in the ticket cost. $65 for Members, $75 for Non-Members

To purchase your tickets for individual tennis sections or any of the events listed above, click HERE.

Family Circle Cup, April 12 – 19, 2009

Charleston’s premiere tennis event is swiftly approaching, bringing to town some of the world’s top female tennis players, all ready and willing to steal Serena William’s title from last year!

Starting Saturday, April 11, the tournament will feature more than 50 players competing for a piece of the million-dollar purse. The line up includes World No. 1 Serena Williams, World No. 5 Vera Zvonareva, World No. 6 Venus Williams, World No. 9 Nadia Petrova, World No. 11 Victoria Azarenka and World No. 13 Caroline Wozniacki.

Throughout its 36-year history, the tournament has played host to some of the biggest names in the sport including Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, Tracy Austin, Steffi Graf, Gabriela Sabatini, Martina Hingis, Jennifer Capriati and Justine Henin.

2008 Champion Serena Williams at Family Circle Magazine Stadium

As one of the hottest tickets in professional sports, the Family Circle Cup is more than just a tennis tournament; it’s a festival with some world-class tennis thrown in. During the week, fans are entertained with a variety of activities aimed at making their week on Daniel Island a memorable one. It’s an action packed nine days filled with high-level tennis and a host of other activities that have been created for all age groups from children to senior citizens.

For ticket information, call (843) 856-7900 or visit familycirclecup.com.

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