TENNISfest 2025

July 28th, 2025

On June 28, 2025, TENNISfest returned with its trademark energy and enthusiasm, welcoming over 625 participants of all ages and skill levels to try tennis for FREE at the Edmonton Expo Centre! With the expert guidance of 63 dedicated coaches and the support of 20 enthusiastic volunteers, the Edmonton Tennis Community once again created a vibrant, inclusive event designed to get Edmontonians active, social, and connected through the sport of tennis.

This unique opportunity offered juniors and adults — some brand new to the game and others looking to sharpen their skills — a chance to develop confidence, connect with others, and deepen their love for tennis. Beyond improving technique and fitness, TENNISfest fostered a lively social atmosphere where individuals and families got to explore sponsor and club partner tables gathering information, engaging with local organizations, and picking up fun prizes along the way!

Junior players benefited from engaging lessons based on ages and skill levels delivered by passionate coaches, who focused on teaching fundamental tennis skills with creativity and energy. These sessions not only introduced young players to the sports basics but also instilled healthy competitive spirit and sportsmanship. For many juniors, TENNISfest marked the beginning of an exciting tennis journey, connecting them to a welcoming community and access to resources that support their growth on and off the court.

TENNISfest wasn’t just for the kids, adults also took to the courts with enthusiasm. Experienced coaches tailored instruction to players of all ages, helping them with hands on tips to enhance technique, strategy, and motivation. The event created a rare and refreshing space for adults to be active, challenge themselves, and meet others in a fun, low-pressure environment. It’s never too late to pick up a racquet and fall in love with the game!

A special part of TENNISfest 2025 was dedicated to honouring the memory of Jared MacLean, a beloved coach, mentor, and leader in our tennis community. A memorial table was set up to raise awareness about mental health in sport and invite donations toward a permanent tribute in Jared’s name. Visitors could learn more about who Jared was, the impact he made on so many players and coaches, and the importance of supporting one another both on and off the court. The table also invited families to add their names to be represented in a forthcoming memorial installation, planned for unveiling in September 2025 at the Saville Sports Centre. It was a powerful reminder that while tennis builds strong bodies and sharp skills, it also thrives on connection, care, and community.

In addition to the table, a show court was named in Jared’s honour, where adult participants could take part in fun activities like “Play the Coach,” target hitting challenges to win prizes, or test out Wilson and YONEX racquets. It was a vibrant and fitting celebration of Jared’s legacy, one that reflected his energy, passion, and deep love for the game and the people in it.

This year’s event was made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors including Apollonia Dental Clinic, Tennis Alberta, Tennis Canada, GroundTruth Exploration, Edmonton Destination Marketing Hotels, Enaly, ParticipACTION, Kevin’s Rocks-Racquets, Wilson, YONEX, Advantage Sport Medicine, and Muscles Mind Fitness. A special thanks also goes to club partners Royal Glenora, Saville Sports Centre, Garneau Tennis Club, The Derrick, Capilano Tennis Club, St. Albert Tennis Club, and IQ Tennis Centre for their ongoing collaboration.

The Edmonton Tennis Community is incredibly grateful to everyone who made TENNISfest 2025 such a standout event! From our amazing coaches and tireless volunteers to the enthusiastic participants, generous sponsors, and supportive club partners. Thanks to their collective energy and dedication, the day became more than just an event, it was a true celebration of community, connection, and the power of sport!