April 11, 2002

COLUMBIA, Mo. - The grand opening of the Green Tennis Center at Mizzou will be held on Saturday prior to the Missouri women's tennis match against Syracuse. The grand opening and dedication ceremony will begin at 11:30 a.m.

The new facility, which was completed this winter, is located south of Reactor Field, just off Providence Rd. and is home to the Mizzou women's tennis team. The building of the facility was made possible after a $500,000 gift from Jerry Green. Green is the owner of WHB 810 Radio in Kansas City. His father attended MU and was a member of the Missouri men's tennis team in the 1920's.

The unique facility has the flexibility of indoor and outdoor play as it's adjustable sides allow the facility to be opened in warm weather, and enclosed and heated during the winter months. The center includes four courts, spectator seating, locker rooms, bathrooms and office space.

The Green Tennis Center, not only gives the Tiger tennis team a true home court, it also serves the general public of the area. Family, individual and junior memberships are available with annual and monthly payment options. Memberships include the opportunity for private instruction and lessons from pros, regular tennis clinics, videotape analysis of sessions, group clinics and participation in USTA Leagues and Club tournaments.

Following the ceremony, the No. 65 ranked Tiger women's tennis team will take on Syracuse at 2 p.m. The Tigers will be back on the courts at the Green Tennis Center at Mizzou on Sunday to face Eastern Illinois at 12 p.m. Missouri is 8-10 the season and has three matches remaining before the Big 12 Tournament.