Riverfront tennis at a Washington Kastles match
Tennis, anyone? The Washington Kastles, the 2011 World Team Tennis Champions, are getting ready to return to the DC court! The season began on July 9, and their first home match at Kastles Stadium is tomorrow, July 12, against the New York Sportimes.
The Kastles are the DC franchise of World TeamTennis, the professional league that, you might say, is a complete 180 from Wimbledon. WTT breaks from the familiar traditions of tennis — teams play by a unique set of rules, loud music and fun spectacles occur during the match, and the crowd is not just welcome, but encouraged to be a part of it all. It’s a sporting event that focuses on the fans just as much as the stars.
Owen & friend cheer on the team
As they defend their title, it’s guaranteed to be an exciting season. Not to mention, some of the sport’s biggest stars are on the team, Serena and Venus among them. Tickets are still available for all of the matches (though the cheap seats are gone for the star-studded ones), and this coming Sunday, July 15, is a Family Night with lots of fun activities for kids and adults around the grounds of Kastles Stadium. Owen and I attended last year, and we had a blast, both during the pre-game festivities and watching the match. The stadium isn’t huge, so you have a good view no matter where you sit and really feel like you’re in on the action. Plus, the music, mid-match exhibitions, and the players keep the crowd amped up.
With team mascot, Topspin
And I have to mention the location. Kastles Stadium is located at The Wharf on the Southwest Waterfront. You get views of the river, a nice summer breeze, and exciting tennis action all at once. If you’re a fan of tennis, it really is a can’t-miss local event.
The Washington Kastles season at home lasts through July 28. See the full schedule and purchase tickets here.
