Celebrate the Grand Reopening of the Ben Press Tennis Center

The Ben Press Tennis Center at Roosevelt Middle School (3366 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103) is ready to welcome the community back with a fresh look and renewed spirit. Mark your calendars for Friday, April 24, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for a special event celebrating the grand reopening of these tennis courts. This occasion promises to bring together local leaders, tennis enthusiasts, and community members for a memorable celebration.

What to Expect at the Grand Reopening

The event will feature a Banner Unveiling to officially mark the reopening of the center. This symbolic moment will highlight the commitment from the community led by the Greater San Diego City Tennis Council to supporting youth sports and healthy activities. Following the unveiling, a brief speaking program will run for about 20 to 25 minutes, featuring remarks from key figures who have played important roles in the center’s renovation and ongoing mission.

Speakers and Hosts

• Lee Dulgeroff, Chief Facilities Officer, San Diego Unified School District

• Andy Field, Director, San Diego Parks & Recreation Department

• Ryan Redondo, CEO, Youth Tennis San Diego

• Jack McGrory, Advisor, Greater San Diego City Tennis Council

• Geoff Griffin, Master of Ceremonies

  
  

Each speaker will share insights about the center’s impact on the community, the renovation process, and future plans for youth tennis programs. Geoff Griffin will guide the event, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for all attendees.

The Importance of the Ben Press Tennis Center

The Ben Press Tennis Center will be a hub for tennis players of all ages and skill levels in San Diego. It serves as a place where young athletes can freely develop their tennis skills, build confidence, and enjoy healthy competition. The recent renovations have upgraded the courts and facilities to provide a safer and more enjoyable environment.

Supporting Youth and Community Health

Youth Tennis San Diego, led by CEO Ryan Redondo, has been instrumental in promoting tennis as a tool for youth development. The center offers programs that encourage physical activity, teamwork, and discipline. These programs help keep young people engaged in positive activities, contributing to their overall well-being.

Collaboration Across Agencies

The reopening event highlights the collaboration between the San Diego Unified School District, the San Diego Parks & Recreation Department, and local tennis organizations. This partnership ensures that the facility remains accessible and well-maintained for future generations.

Why You Should Attend

Attending the grand reopening is a chance to:

• Celebrate a community asset that promotes health and youth development

• Hear from leaders shaping the future of tennis in San Diego

• Connect with fellow tennis enthusiasts and community members

• Experience the newly renovated courts firsthand

  
  

Whether you are a player, parent, coach, or supporter of tennis, this event offers something meaningful for everyone.

Who is Ben Press?

Often referred to as "Mr. Tennis," Ben Press taught tennis for 58 years (Kona Kai, Hotel Del Coronado, and San Diego Hilton). He is credited for teaching San Diego’s only Wimbledon champions, Maureen Connolly and Karen Hantze Susman. Other notable former students were: Brian Teacher, Marita Redondo, Kristen Kemmer, Angelica Gavaldon, Steve Avoyer, Randy Thomas, and Alexandra Stevenson. As a player, Ben was a top ranking junior as well as a senior stand-out. His name is on the prestigious "champions list" of the 1951 La Jolla Tournament. He claimed three USTA Senior National doubles titles and represented the United States four times in the Gordon Cup, an International competition. Ben served two terms as President of both the San Diego District Tennis Association and San Diego division of the USPTA. And finally, he is recognized as the only San Diegan who has been awarded the National Community Service Award from both the USTA and the USPTA.

Plan Your Visit

The event will take place at the Ben Press Tennis Center located on the Roosevelt Middle School campus. Arrive a few minutes early to find a good seat and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The reopening of the tennis facility is more than just a celebration of new courts. It is a reaffirmation of the community’s dedication to providing safe, quality spaces for youth to grow through tennis. Join us on April 24 to be part of this exciting moment and support the future of tennis in San Diego. Your presence will help inspire the next generation of players and show the strength of community spirit.