San Diego, CA - November 22, 2016 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the completion of a six tennis court renovation project in partnership with the George and Betty Harbaugh Charitable Foundation (Harbaugh Foundation) and the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD). In conjunction with the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the GSDCTC, the Harbaugh Foundation and the SDCCD were pleased to unveil a commemorative plaque honoring Ben Press and George Harbaugh, lifetime friends and tennis ambassadors. Ben Press was the co-founder of the GSDCTC. George was the co-founder of the Harbaugh Foundation. The courts were professionally renovated and resurfaced by CH Court Tech in two toned US Open blue and green colors. Joe Balla, Director of the George & Betty Harbaugh Charitable Foundation stated, "The Foundation is pleased to honor George Harbaugh and Ben Press in the re-dedication of this tennis facility at San Diego City College. More importantly, we are happy to help bring the ageless sport of tennis to new generations of college players. That would have pleased George and Ben immensely." Lance Lareau, District Architect of the San Diego Community College District, and longtime friend of the San Diego tennis community stated, “Our District greatly appreciates the generosity of the George and Betty Harbaugh Charitable Foundation and the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council in helping us create safe, accessible, and well-maintained courts for what is the sport of a lifetime for so many in our community. I know my longtime friend and tennis ambassador, Mr. Ben Press, would be very pleased.” David Gill, President of the GSDCTC stated, “Our Tennis Council appreciates the generosity of the Harbaugh Foundation, as well as the San Diego Community College District. Our mission is to resurface tennis courts and to thereby enable youth and families to enjoy the sport of tennis for years to come. This project was definitely a team effort!” The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is a 501c(3) charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County, with over 225 courts completed and counting. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors.

Ribbon Cutting Celebration at San Diego City College Celebrating Tennis Court Renovation Project Plaque Unveiling Honoring Local Legends and Tennis Ambassadors Ben Press and George Harbaugh


Ribbon Cutting Celebration at Eastlake High School for Three Site Joint Venture Project

San Diego, CA - October 22, 2016 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the completion of a three high school tennis court renovation project in partnership with the Sweetwater Union High School District (SUHSD). This project involved the renovation of 30 tennis courts at the following SUHSD school sites:

• Bonita Vista High School (6 courts) – work performed by CH Court Tech

• Eastlake High School (12 courts) – work performed by Ferandell Tennis Courts

• Montgomery High School (12 courts) – work performed by Ferandell Tennis Courts

The courts were professionally renovated and resurfaced by CH Court Tech and Ferandell Tennis Courts in two toned US Open blue and green colors at all three school sites. Half of the courts at each high school site were lined for USTA “10 and under tennis” to enhance the enjoyment and development for younger children. The project was financed by a combination of the following funding sources: a family from Bonita Vista High School, Bowden Family Foundation, Farrell Family Foundation, San Diego District Tennis Association, Southern California Tennis Association, Randi and Charles Wax, GSDCTC and a majority funding grant from the SUHSD. The renovation budget for the 30 court project was in excess of $155,000. Jack McGrory, former San Diego City Manager, served as Master of Ceremony. Mr. McGrory has been a long-time friend and generous supporter of GSDCTC. Jack McGrory stated, “My close friend Ben Press, cofounder of GSDCTC passed away last month at the age of 92. I am confident that Ben’s amazing legacy of community service will continue in the good hands of the remaining GSDCTC board members.” “We are truly grateful to the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council,” said SUHSD Superintendent Karen Janney, Ed.D. “This is a great example of how we can work together to get results and put students first.” David Gill, President of the GSDCTC stated, “Over the past five years, GSDCTC has partnered with SUHSD to renovate 44 tennis courts at six high schools. The GSDCTC appreciates the commitment that SUHSD has made to its schools and the local community to provide high quality courts to enable youth and families to enjoy the sport of tennis for years to come. I commend Frank Mendoza, Maintenance Planner / Coordinator at SUHSD for his hard work and professionalism. This multi-site project could not have been completed as effectively without his dedicated efforts.” The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is a 501c(3) charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County, with over 225 courts completed and counting. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors.

Ben Press, Co-Founder GSDCTC, 5/31/1924 – 9/9/2016 RIP

Ben Press, Co-Founder GSDCTC, 5/31/1924 – 9/9/2016 RIP


East County CTA/Helix High School Completes 6 Tennis Court Renovation Project & Ben Press Recognized with Junior Tennis Tournament Named in his Honor

San Diego, CA - August 25, 2015 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the completion of a six tennis court renovation project at East County Community Tennis Association (ECCTA)/Helix High School. ECCTA chose to have their six selected courts repaired and resurfaced in green (interior) and red (exterior) colors. The tennis courts were renovated and resurfaced by Ferandell Tennis Courts. This project was financed by a combination of generous support from ECCTA, Helix High School, the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (via foundations and private donors), and grants from the San Diego District Tennis Association and the Southern California Tennis Association. Ben Press, President of the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council said, “I was deeply honored to have a junior tennis tournament named after me at the freshly renovated ECCTA tennis facility. It was fun and exciting watching many of the matches and I was very impressed and pleased to see such a large entry turnout.” David Gill, Vice President of the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council said, “We were pleased to again provide funding and advisory support to the ECCTA for this recent court renovation. Our Tennis Council admires ECCTA’s commitment to successfully provide a quality tennis facility and an environment that encourages and promotes tournaments, leagues and recreational play in the community.” Michael Metti, Past President of the Board of Directors of ECCTA said, “For the second time, the Tennis Council has stepped up to help the ECCTA resurface many highly-used courts, enhancing the tennis experience for tennis enthusiasts young and old. The Tennis Council has been available to lend a hand every time they’ve been called upon. We’re grateful for everyone’s diligent efforts to ensure fun, exciting play at the ECCTA for years to come.” The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is a 501-C3 charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors.

From Left to Right: (Tom O’Brien, Ben Press, Tamara Sarafijanovic, Michael Metti, David Gill, Ben Gill and Rebecca Gill)

From Left to Right: (Tom O’Brien, Ben Press, Tamara Sarafijanovic, Michael Metti, David Gill, Ben Gill and Rebecca Gill)

Ben Press with Girls 10 & under Winners

Ben Press with Girls 10 & under Winners


Grand OPENING/RIBBON CUTTING CELEBRATION AND COMMUNITY TENNIS CLINIC CONDUCTED AT EL RANCHO DEL REY PARK – SITE OF TWO TENNIS COURT RENOVATION PROJECT 

 

 

San Diego, CA – July 14, 2015 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the grand opening celebration of a two tennis court renovation project at El Rancho Del Rey Park. The courts were repaired and resurfaced in two toned dark blue and dark green colors. Both of the tennis courts have been lined for USTA “10 and under tennis” to enhance the enjoyment and development of younger children. The courts were professionally renovated and resurfaced by Ferandell Tennis Courts. This project was financed by a combination of support from the GSDCTC (via foundations and private donors), a grant from the San Diego District Tennis Association (SDDTA) and a contribution from the City of Chula Vista. Ben Press, President of GSDCTC stated, “It was exciting to see such an enthusiastic community turnout of youth and families. In addition to the generous financial support, SDDTA also provided a free “Family Tennis Day” tennis clinic which was conducted by fellow GSDCTC Board Members Geoff Griffin and Tom O’Brien, with additional assistance provided by local United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) tennis professional Juan Villanueva. We are pleased to have established this partnership with the City of Chula Vista to enrich the lives of community members by providing these safe and enjoyable state-of-the-art tennis facilities for youth and adults alike.” John McCann, Chula Vista City Councilmember stated, “The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council, along with the San Diego District Tennis Association, were incredibly generous in their support for the El Rancho Del Rey Park tennis court renovation project. The City of Chula Vista is fortunate to partner with those who are so passionate about the sport of tennis and wish to share it with our city's families. We look forward to partnering with them in the years to come to promote fun, fitness and sportsmanship in the South Bay.” The GSDCTC is a 501(c)3 charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors.

From Left to Right: (unknown, Agnes Bernardo, Tom O’Brien, Ben Press, Chula Vista Council member John McCann, Roz King, Geoff Griffin, Bill Molina, David Gill and unknown)

From Left to Right: (unknown, Agnes Bernardo, Tom O’Brien, Ben Press, Chula Vista Council member John McCann, Roz King, Geoff Griffin, Bill Molina, David Gill and unknown)


San Diego, CA – December 3, 2014 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the completion of an eight tennis court renovation project at San Diego Mesa College. San Diego Mesa College (SDMC) chose to have their eight courts repaired and resurfaced in two toned dark and light blue colors. One of the eight tennis courts has been lined for USTA “10 and under tennis” to enhance the enjoyment and development of younger children. The courts were professionally renovated and resurfaced by Ferandell Tennis Courts. This project was financed by a combination of generous support from the GSDCTC (via foundations and private donors), the San Diego Community College District and a grant from the San Diego District Tennis Association (SDDTA). David Gill, VP Finance of GSDCTC stated, “We appreciate collaborating yet again with the San Diego Community College District as well as with our long-term partner the SDDTA to renovate this centrally located community recreational asset. We are confident that broad community usage will continue to take place at SDMC by local juniors, adults and families as well as significant activity by collegiate tennis team members and recreational use by SDMC students.” Dr. Pamela Luster, President of SDMC stated, “Tennis is an individual sport, but this truly was a collaborative effort. We are very proud of partnerships such as these so that our community, as well as our student athletes, can enjoy these courts,” said Dr. Pamela T. Luster, president. Anne Podney, Chair of the Grant Committee for the SDDTA stated, "The SDDTA is pleased that Mesa College is committed to the growth of tennis on its campus as well as in the surrounding community." The GSDCTC is a 501(c)3 charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors.

San Diego Mesa College Completes Eight Tennis Court Renovation Project

 

 

 

Back Row (left to right): Geoff Griffin, Dr. Pamela Luster, Dave Evans & Tom O’Brien, Front Row (left to right): Anne Podney, Ben Press, Mike Hootner & David Gill

Back Row (left to right): Geoff Griffin, Dr. Pamela Luster, Dave Evans & Tom O’Brien, Front Row (left to right): Anne Podney, Ben Press, Mike Hootner & David Gill


San Diego, CA - July 24, 2014 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the upcoming renovation of the six tennis court complex at Colina Del Sol Community Park. The courts will be repaired and then resurfaced in two toned US Open blue and green colors. The courts will be lined for USTA “10 and under tennis” to enhance the enjoyment and development for younger children. The renovation is expected to be completed by the end of August. On July 23rd, a formal ground breaking ceremony took place with the following representatives speaking at the celebration – Jack McGrory (Master of Ceremony and a San Diego Aviators owner), Herman Parker (Director of the San Diego Park & Recreation Department), Bill Kellogg (2014 Davis Cup Organizing Committee Co-Chair), Ben Press (GSDCTC President), Melanie Bischoff (representing the Southern California Tennis Association), Steve Kappes (San Diego District Tennis Association President) and Wayne Bryan (father of the Bryan Twins and Tennis Coach Extraordinaire). This event was an enormous success due to the significant support from the “close-knit” San Diego Tennis Community. Roughly one hundred youth came out to participate in an inspiring, fun and informative celebration of tennis. Wayne Bryan, who is a charismatic world-class tennis coach and ambassador, shared many personal experiences and advice on how to excel at the game of tennis. Free tennis related prizes were given to attending youth. Numerous local teaching tennis professionals generously volunteered their time and assisted with the tennis clinic. Mike & Bob Bryan, the World #1 Ranked Men’s Doubles Team and US Davis Cup Team stalwarts, spoke with participants and generously provided autographs and posed for photographs. Moreover, the Bryan brothers got on the tennis court for a fun hit with an enthusiastic group of youth tennis players. The Colina Del Sol courts will be professionally renovated and resurfaced by Ferandell Tennis Courts. We would like to thank the following contributors for making this Davis Cup Legacy Project possible: 2014 Davis Cup Organizing Committee, GSDCTC, San Diego Aviators, San Diego District Tennis Association, Southern California Tennis Association, Jack McGrory and Joan Ganz Cooney (in memory of her brother Paul Ganz). Bill Kellogg stated, “Davis Cup is one of the greatest traditional tennis competitions in the world. Being able to host the tie between the United States and Great Britain at Petco Park in February of 2014 was a very special opportunity for San Diego. Each tie held in the United States strives to leave a legacy behind that will spur tennis development in the community and remind people of the tie. Colina Del Sol is the chosen legacy for this tie and will add a new shine to a wonderful community park.” Jack McGrory stated, “It is great to see so many organizations come together to support this initiative. Tennis programs have also increased recently at this site through partnerships with the San Diego District Tennis Association and Youth Tennis San Diego. This facility is now more strongly positioned to enhance the quality of life of this community.” Ben Press & David Gill jointly stated, “The GSDCTC is very pleased to have been able to participate in and orchestrate this very exciting community development program. Once completed, this upgraded facility will benefit hundreds of children, families and other community members.” The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is a 501c(3) charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County, with over 170 courts completed and counting. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors. 

Ground Breaking Ceremony for the Davis Cup Legacy Project at Colina Del Sol Community Park Tennis

(From left to right): Winston Strozier, Tom O’Brien, Roz King, Bill Kellogg, Bob Bryan, Mike Bryan, Ben Press, David Gill and Wayne Bryan

(From left to right): Winston Strozier, Tom O’Brien, Roz King, Bill Kellogg, Bob Bryan, Mike Bryan, Ben Press, David Gill and Wayne Bryan


San Diego, CA – December 6, 2013 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the completion of a four tennis court renovation project at the Linda Vista Recreation Center (LVRC). The LVRC chose to have their four courts repaired and resurfaced in US Open blue and green colors. Two of the four tennis courts have been lined for USTA “10 and under tennis” to enhance the enjoyment and development of younger children. The courts were professionally renovated and resurfaced by Ferandell Tennis Courts. This project was financed by a combination of generous support from the County of San Diego, the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (via foundations and private donors), a grant from the San Diego District Tennis Association and a grant from the United States Tennis Association. Ben Press, President of the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council stated, “It’s with justifiable pride that our Tennis Council, with support from the County of San Diego and the San Diego District Tennis Association, has orchestrated the renovation of the four courts at the LVRC. Now hundreds of juniors and adults will be able to enjoy our favorite sport.” County Supervisor Ron Roberts was among the renovation’s supporters. “Linda Vista’s recreation programs were a big part of my youth, and I want to ensure today’s young people can enjoy the same, and better, experiences,” said Roberts. “At the county, we also know that our youth are, on the whole, too sedentary. Our Live Well, San Diego initiative is designed to promote exercise and playing tennis is a fantastic way to accomplish that goal. Who knows, maybe the courts will produce our next Ben Press!” Steve Kappes, President of the San Diego District Tennis Association stated, "We're very proud of our long partnership with the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council. Our district's mission is to promote and develop the growth of tennis, and having accessible, affordable, and well maintained courts throughout the county is key. That's why we have contributed nearly $90,000 over the past ten years to help the Tennis Council refurbish 15 public and school tennis facilities, including these great new courts at the Linda Vista Rec Center." Jack McGrory, a former city manager of San Diego, served as the Master of Ceremonies for this momentous celebration. He has been one of the most generous funding supporters of the GSDCTC throughout its thirteen year history. In-kind donations were generously provided by 4Point4 including: basketballs, volleyballs, soccer balls and baseball caps for the recreation center and the enjoyment of the youth in the community. The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is a 501-C3 charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors.

Linda Vista Recreation Center Completes Four Tennis Court Renovation Project


San Diego, CA - May 31, 2013 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the grand re-opening of the eight tennis court and four basketball court athletic facility at Roosevelt Middle School (RMS), San Diego, CA. This momentous event involved a court dedication ceremony where the facility was named, the “Ben Press Tennis Center at Roosevelt Middle School”. Ben Press, founder and President of the GSDCTC is a proud 1939 graduate of Roosevelt Junior High School. The courts were renovated in two separate phases during which eight standard basketball posts and goals at the west courts were removed creating four tennis-only courts; the same removal process took place at the east courts where the new high performance basketball posts and goals were reinstalled. The newly renovated tennis and basketball courts were resurfaced from asphalt to a state-of-the-art hard court surface. The tennis courts were also lined for USTA “10 and under tennis” to enhance the enjoyment and development of younger children. The courts were professionally renovated and resurfaced by CH Court Tech. The project was financed by a combination of the following capital sources: Bill Walton, Farrell Family Foundation, Junior Seau Foundation, Neighbors of RMS, RMS Parent, Teacher & Student Association, San Diego District Tennis Association, City of San Diego, and GSDCTC via foundations and private donors. Dr. Arturo Cabello, principal of Roosevelt stated, “To have worked on this collaboration with a partner like the Tennis Council who shares my vision and value of providing the best for our students and the community has been a high point in my career.” Ben Press stated, “This day was full of surprises for me. When it sunk in that the tennis center was named after me I was deeply touched. To have family members come from out of town to share this special day with me was super. I am very proud that the tennis and basketball courts turned out to be one of the nicest facilities in town.” David Gill, VP Finance of the GSDCTC, commented, “A broad team of contributors collaborated to upgrade the RMS athletic facility. The result is an outstanding recreational asset for the students of RMS and the City of San Diego. We hope that the community will enjoy these renovated courts for many years to come. All the members of the Tennis Council are proud that the San Diego Unified School District chose to honor Ben Press by naming the tennis facility after him at his alma mater.” Bill Walton, NBA Hall of Famer and neighbor to RMS, states, “My wife Lori and I are very pleased that the upgraded basketball and tennis courts at Roosevelt turned out so well. Children deserve quality athletic facilities to enjoy the great outdoors in park like settings. This outstanding facility will serve our community well and provide healthy and positive activities for community members.” In-kind donations and/or services were provided by the following organizations: 4Point4, 8twenty8 Studios, Joe Park Films and Metromedia Technologies, Inc. The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is a 501-C3 charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors.

COURT DEDICATION CEREMONY FOR THE “BEN PRESS TENNIS CENTER AT ROOSEVELT MIDDLE SCHOOL”

Back Row (left to right): Bill Walton, Franklin Johnson, Ben Press, David Gill & Matt Harvey Front Row (left to right): Richard Barrera, Arturo Cabello & Lillian Shallow

Back Row (left to right): Bill Walton, Franklin Johnson, Ben Press, David Gill & Matt Harvey Front Row (left to right): Richard Barrera, Arturo Cabello & Lillian Shallow


San Diego, CA - January 18, 2013 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the completion of a four tennis court renovation project at East County Community Tennis Association (EC CTA)/Helix High School. EC CTA chose to have their four selected courts repaired and resurfaced in green to maintain the color scheme of all 12 courts which reflects Helix High Schools’ colors. The tennis courts were renovated and resurfaced by CH Court Tech. This project was financed by a combination of generous support from EC CTA, the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (via foundations and private donors), a grant from the San Diego District Tennis Association and a grant from the United States Tennis Association. Bill Walton, Helix High School Alumni and NBA Hall of Famer said, “I am very proud of the work done by the Tennis Council at my beloved Helix High School as well as at other sites throughout San Diego...and am thrilled to know the students and members of the community will enjoy playing tennis on these beautifully renovated courts for many years to come!” Ben Press, President of the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council said, “Fifty years ago I was a participant in a tennis exhibition at the Helix High School Gym to raise funds for the tennis teams. Now I’m pleased to again be able to help the Helix High School tennis situation.” Michael Metti, President of the Board of Directors of EC CTA said, “It is gratifying to have worked with the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council, who appreciates the value of tennis and what it does for the community. Budget cuts in education have put a strain on most schools and their ability to resurface their courts. We are so thankful to have the advice and funding from such a positive organization. Tennis enthusiasts in San Diego are fortunate to have a group like the GSDCTC working to promote and support this wonderful sport.” The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is proud to report that it has led the resurfacing of over 40 public tennis courts in San Diego, CA during the past two years. The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is a 501-C3 charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors.

East County CTA/Helix High School Completes 4 Tennis Court Renovation Project

Back Row (left to right): Karen Ronney, Virginia Watson, unknown, Corey Hardick, Mike Metti, Jay Diaz, Han Pham, Ryan Chou & Steve Kappes. Front Row/Center (left to right): Lois Sczepaniak, Dave Gill & Ben Press.

Back Row (left to right): Karen Ronney, Virginia Watson, unknown, Corey Hardick, Mike Metti, Jay Diaz, Han Pham, Ryan Chou & Steve Kappes. Front Row/Center (left to right): Lois Sczepaniak, Dave Gill & Ben Press.


San Diego, CA - May 2, 2012 - The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (GSDCTC) proudly announces the completion of a six tennis court renovation project at Castle Park High School (CPHS). CPHS chose to have their courts resurfaced in red to match the Castle Park Trojan’s school color. These renovated courts will provide an enhanced experience for the student body as well as the community. The tennis courts were renovated and resurfaced by CH Court Tech. This project was jointly financed by a combination of generous support from the Sweetwater Union High School District, the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council (via foundations and private donors), and a grant from the San Diego District Tennis Association. Dr. Thomas Glover, the Principal from Castle Park High School, said, "We are incredibly grateful to the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council for their support in refurbishing our courts. This collaborative effort will ensure a quality facility for our community. It is a joy to have such a fantastic organization as a partner." Ben Press, the President of the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council said, “It is our Tennis Council’s pleasure to transform the six almost unplayable courts into six pristine courts conducive for the Trojan tennis teams, the rest of the student body and public.” Pearl Quiñones, the Board President of the Sweetwater Union High School District said, “The Sweetwater Union High School District is excited about the partnership we have with the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council. The health and well-being of our students is of the utmost importance and these courts give students the opportunity to play the great game of tennis.” The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is proud to report that it has led the resurfacing of over 30 public tennis courts in San Diego, CA over the past 12 months. The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council is a 501-C3 charitable organization whose mission is to repair and resurface public tennis courts within San Diego County. We rely on the generosity of private donors, foundations, corporations and other entities to support our endeavors.

Castle Park High School Completes 6 Tennis Court Renovation Project