The Tennis Life

ARTICLE BY PHIL TRAHAN

May 22nd proved a pivotal day in the history of NELA Tennis when the ribbon was cut on the Charlotte Bolton Tennis Complex. The addition of seven tennis courts and a state of the art clubhouse creates a 15-court venue suitable for competitions at the regional, state and multi-state levels. And pickle ball has arrived at Forsythe Park with the construction of two dedicated courts.

While much has been rightfully made of the economic impact expected from larger events, it is interesting to note that the local community is taking full advantage of the increased capacity. Currently there are 68 adults and 86 juniors participating in league play.

HEARD AT THE NET POST
“We are excited about the future of tennis with this state of the art facility.” Kathryn Waters, Community Tennis Association President.

“My mother, Charlotte Padgett Bolton, was a trailblazer and our family is proud to see this wonderful facility bear her name. A little known fact is that she lettered as a member of the LSU Mens tennis team during WW2. At the award presentation the flustered MC thought there must be a mistake and introduced her as “Charlie;” a name that stuck with her teammates.”  says Padg Bolton.

“From a dream in 1992 to a reality in 2025! With a complex of 15 courts at Forsythe and 15 at ULM, bids for major tournaments are in the future. This facility will rank among the top three in the state, so pick up a racket and come join the fun!”  Vickie Krutzer, Louisiana Tennis Association Vice President.