Summerlin tennis coach receives national honor

Gordon Hammond, Summerlin Tennis Club director and Bishop Gorman High School tennis coach, was recently recognized as the High School Coach of the Year by the U.S. Professional Tennis Association, the world's oldest and largest association of tennis-teaching professionals.

Hammond has more than 30 years' experience playing tennis and more than 15 years' experience as a coach. His career has taken him around the world, including England where he started coaching in 1991. Hammond has an impressive high school coaching record at Summerlin's newest private school, Bishop Gorman, and has served as manager of Summerlin's tennis program since its inception in 1999.

During Hammond's 10 years at Bishop Gorman, the women's varsity tennis team has won seven state championships while posting a 154-9 record.

As teaching pro and director of the Summerlin Tennis Club, Hammond oversees a variety of annual clinics, classes and camps for Summerlin residents of all ages and skill levels.

In 2003, the Summerlin Tennis Club was recognized by the Nevada Tennis Association as Organization of the Year for its success in attracting new players to the game. Today, thousands of residents enjoy playing on one of Summerlin's 14 lighted courts located in various parks throughout the community.

Hammond attributes the growth of the program in part to the abundance of lighted tennis courts that accommodate early morning and evening play.

"Summerlin tennis players have a relatively easy time securing court time and finding players of comparable ability," Hammond said. "With courts located from one end of the community to the other, a good tennis game or volley is just minutes away."

All resident tennis programs in Summerlin are coordinated by The Summerlin Council. In addition, the council oversees the care and maintenance of most of the community's existing tennis courts. The Arbors Tennis & Play Park serves as Summerlin tennis headquarters and features five lighted, outdoor tennis courts, including one stadium court that accommodates spectators during tournament play.

For more information on Summerlin, visit summerlin.com or call 888-898-5015.