Tennis Talk

April 2026

Hello Members of The Orlando Tennis Centre

Welcome back to another edition of OTC Tennis Talk! We're here to keep you informed about all the latest happenings at the Orlando Tennis Centre.

How Tennis Keeps Us Healthy

In honor of World Health Day on April 7, let's take a moment to appreciate the many ways that tennis can boost our wellness. We all know that tennis keeps you healthy and strong, but did you know these fun facts? Some studies have shown that playing tennis regularly can add almost a decade to your life span. It’s also an excellent cardiovascular workout, helps build strong bones, improves cognitive function, and can even help reduce symptoms of depression. Happy World Health Day and looking forward to seeing you on the courts April 7!

Want to get involved? - Spring Clinics

Spring clinics are right around the corner, and we’d love to hear from our valued members! What would you like to see more of at OTC? Do you have a great idea for a new clinic offering? What times work best for you or your family?

If you have suggestions you’d like to share, please email them to julianna.zylis@orlando.gov or jacqulyn.ross@orlando.gov. We’ll happily take your ideas into consideration as we plan our upcoming Spring Clinics!

Point, Set, Match!

The Dr. I. Sylvester Hankins Park Neighborhood Center is hosting a youth tennis program for beginner players from March 30 to May 18, 2026. Sessions will be held on Mondays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. This program is designed to introduce youth to the exciting game of tennis in a fun, supportive, and structured environment. This program will focus on building confidence, coordination and fundamental skills.

Participants will learn:

• Proper grip and basic strokes (forehand, backhand, serve)
• Footwork and movement fundamentals
• Scoring and rules of the game
• Sportsmanship and teamwork
• Basic match play skills

For more information, contact Thomas Bright at 407.246.4455.

How to Stay Cool in the Heat

With warmer weather right around the corner, we want to remind you of the many ways to stay cool here at the Orlando Tennis Centre.

• Misting Fans: Use our misting fans located between courts for a quick recharge during your match.
• Stay in the Shade: OTC has multiple sunshades to help keep players out of the sun during breaks. Check out our picnic areas, which feature adjustable umbrellas to keep you in the shade any time of day.
• Hydrate: Keep your water bottles full at our multiple refill stations throughout the facility.
• Ice Machines: Make use of the ice machines for water bottles, coolers, or ice packs. You can find them behind the main building and in the back near the pickleball courts.
• Locker Rooms: After your session, visit our locker room facilities for a cool and refreshing shower.

Juneteenth Tournament Reminder

What are you waiting for? Sign up now for our Juneteenth Summer Tournament happening June 19–21.  

You won’t want to sit this one out! If you’re 18 or older and ready to compete, chat with a staff member during your next visit to register or give us a call at 407.246.4469.

Register now

If you have any questions about the tournament visit DJTC.org or call 407.790.2217.

Rules Corner

Our guidelines are in place to keep the facility running smoothly and ensure everyone has a safe, enjoyable experience. We kindly ask that you keep these rules in mind:

• No music, animals, or dogs are allowed on the grounds, courts, or inside the Orlando Tennis Centre.
• No food, soft drinks, tea, coffee, gum, smoking, tobacco, alcoholic beverages, or controlled substances are allowed.
• All players must pick up balls, clean debris, and remove personal items from the court at the conclusion of play.
• Members may reserve a court up to two days in advance starting at 1 p.m.
• Members may reserve a maximum of one court per day.
• Non-members may not reserve a court.
• No reservations are to be made starting at 9 a.m.
• All reserved courts will reopen 10 minutes after the set time if the party does not show.

Read our full list of rules