Video: Students And Coach Stress Need For Improved Tennis Facilities

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PONTOTOC, COUNTY, MISS. (WCBI) – Every afternoon, about 20 South Pontotoc Middle and High School students hit the tennis court.

Only four can play at a time, while the others pass the time. There is only one tennis court at the South Pontotoc Attendance Center. The court is 12 years old and it has seen better days.

“It’s in dire need of resurfacing, we have cracks, we have grass growing up through it, it holds water,” said Tennis Coach Helen Bowen.

Coach Bowen started the tennis program when she came to the school, she has guided students to multiple state championships and other titles. Coach Bowen says a new tennis facility is long overdue.

At a space which sits just north of the current tennis court, there is enough room for at least three courts, there is only one problem, and that is money.

“We’re looking at $40,000 , just for the concrete for two courts, at least,” Coach Bowen said.

Students say a new tennis facility would have many benefits for years to come.

“More courts would help because we have had to turn kids away because we don’t have enough room out here, so it would help kids , future kids coming up,” said SPHS Senior Attie Finley.

“Everybody gets more playing time, that helps us improve as a team and helps us just get better,” said Eighth Grader Maddy Angle.

Students have organized several fundraisers, and a Go Fund Me Page is active.

If you would like to help out, go to www.gofundme.com/xdx2zc2s