You never know who you’ll meet on a tennis court in the Midlands. A surgeon, a local business owner, a lawyer — maybe even a city editor. While pickleball’s been hogging the spotlight lately, tennis is still thriving in our area, especially during National Tennis Month.

The perks? Tennis is linked to longer life expectancy, better heart health, lower stress, and it’s one of the few sports people stick with well into their 70s and beyond. Let’s get you in the swing of things.

How to get involved

New to tennis? Tennis 101 and Tennis 102 are beginner-friendly adult programs run by the South Carolina Tennis Association, teaching the fundamentals in a group setting. Sessions are offered across the Midlands, with new dates coming soon. Bonus: the courses come with a tennis racquet.

Looking to play more? USTA hosts beginner round robins, clinics, and free events throughout the year. These are fun, low-pressure ways to meet other players and sharpen your game. Pro tip: During May, it’s free to play at the Columbia Tennis Center from 1 to 5 p.m.

Ready for league play? The Columbia Tennis League + the Lexington Area Tennis Association (LATA) offers options for all skill levels and age groups. Flex league registration is open through Sunday, June 1.

Where to play

Pick a court, any court. Columbia and Lexington are full of them — shaded, lit, quiet, busy — whatever kind of tennis court you're looking for.

Accessibility

Tennis in the Midlands is made for all kinds of players — kids picking up a racquet for the first time, adults getting back into the game, and seniors who’ve been playing for decades. Leagues and programs span all age ranges, and adaptive options, like wheelchair tennis, meet weekly.

Need gear? Local spots like Break Point in Five Points and Todd & Moore have you covered — rackets, restringing, and plenty of tennis talk if you’re into that sort of thing.