Women’s Tennis on the Coast
Women’s tennis on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is more than a sport, it’s a thriving community spanning generations and backgrounds. At the heart of this community is Allene Doty Balgord, a retired speech pathologist whose passion for the sport is infectious.
Balgord’s journey into the tennis scene began on her first visit to the Bayou Bluff Tennis Club in Gulfport. “I was living in Brandon, Mississippi, and heard about Bayou Bluff. I wanted to retire to the Coast, so I drove down and joined that day,” she recalls. Today, Balgord plays in leagues year-round, organizes a Ladies Fun League at Bayou Bluff every Wednesday and Friday morning and competes in various tournaments.
The Coast offers a vibrant and inclusive environment for women’s tennis. “Players range from women in their 20s to women in their 80s,” Balgord notes. “They come from all walks of life.” This diversity enriches the community, fostering connections that go beyond the court.
The support for women’s tennis is evident throughout the Coast. Facilities like Gulfport’s Bayou Bluff, Diamondhead Tennis Club, Treasure Oak Country Club in Ocean Springs, and Singing River Yacht Club in Pascagoula provide excellent venues for their members. Public courts like Halstead in Ocean Springs, A.J. Holloway Sports Complex in Biloxi, and City Courts in Pass Christian offer courts without players being members.
The Coast also offers some notable tournaments, including the Dominoes Jeff Alexander Memorial in March, Mayfields & Associates Memorial Day in May, and the Half Shell Oyster House in November, all hosted by Bayou Bluff. Treasure Oak hosts the Pitger Title Company Tournament in April.
Youth tennis plays a crucial role in ensuring the sport’s future. “Without training by pros at the various venues on the Coast, the future for tennis in the area will be grim,” Balgord emphasizes. Junior tournaments across the state provide young players with opportunities to grow and aspire.
For women new to tennis or looking to get into the sport, Balgord advises, “Contact Johnny Wilkerson, Gulf Coast League Coordinator, or join one of the private clubs. Visit the clubs and talk to players, pros, or business managers.” This proactive approach helps newcomers integrate and find their place within the community.
Local tennis coaches and mentors have also played a pivotal role in the growth of women’s tennis in the area. “Toby Faseth was at Bayou Bluff for 17 years and was instrumental in its growth and success. Steve Pennington is at Treasure Oak and is instrumental for that club,” Balgord shares. These dedicated individuals have fostered a supportive environment that encourages both personal and athletic development.
Looking ahead, Balgord sees a bright future for women’s tennis on the Coast. “Women’s tennis has continued to grow in numbers and in the growth of leagues involving different United States Tennis Association levels and various types of league combinations,” she observes.
Women’s tennis on the Coast has grown and matured through the years. Through the efforts of passionate individuals like Balgord and the support of local clubs, the sport continues to flourish, promising an exciting future for generations to come.
