Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The George C. Meyer Tennis Center has been tapped for a major statewide honor, drawing fresh attention to Gulf Shores’ public tennis scene. City officials said the facility was selected for the 2025 USTA Alabama Park and Recreation Department of the Year. The recognition highlights community programs and open access that have helped tennis grow locally. It also puts the center on the radar for players across the state.

The announcement was released on Tuesday of this week. The award recognizes a park or recreation department in Alabama that advances United States Tennis Association (USTA) programs and community outreach. USTA Alabama holds its annual awards during the section’s meeting each winter.

For context, USTA Alabama scheduled the 2025 Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon for February 8 at Vestavia Country Club. That event typically gathers coaches, volunteers, and league leaders from across the state to celebrate the year in tennis. Past winners have ranged from city departments to community tennis groups.

At the local level, the center’s footprint is clear. The tennis complex located at: 2049 West 2nd Street includes 12 hard courts and six clay courts. It draws adults and juniors, beginners and regulars, with lessons, leagues, and tournaments throughout the year.

City staff pointed to an emphasis on access. “We are incredibly proud to be recognized by USTA Alabama,” said Bernie Gilliam, Tennis and Pickleball Coordinator for the City of Gulf Shores. “Our goal has always been to make tennis welcoming and accessible for everyone.”

The USTA Alabama awards committee reviews program engagement and community service when choosing recipients. That includes how facilities support league play, youth opportunities, and adaptive tennis. The group also looks for places that keep players coming back.

Residents know the center best for its steady calendar. Weekend tourneys plug into the beach schedule. Weeknight clinics fill up when snowbirds arrive and after-school hours open. Visitors often return because they can book a court and find a game without much fuss.

The recognition may help the city attract more sanctioned events. It also gives momentum to local volunteers who run ladders, socials and teach new players how to keep score. The ripple effects could show up in fuller draws and livelier weeknight play.

City leaders describe Gulf Shores as a “SMALL TOWN, BIG BEACH” community that aims to keep recreation simple and family friendly. That vision, while broad, appears to fit what regulars see at the courts. People can walk in, rent time, and join a doubles mixer.

For program details, the city directs residents and visitors to its tennis page. Staff can also be reached by phone for schedules and lessons. Those contacts help newcomers find a fit, whether that’s cardio tennis or a first league team.

As interest in pickleball rises, the department says tennis remains a pillar. The award, if anything, may nudge both sports to share space with clearer schedules and more beginner slots. That balance is likely where the next growth will happen.