Half of Montgomery’s Iconic Tennis Classic Finds New Home in Millbrook for its 76th Edition
From the Montgomery YMCA
MILLBROOK, AL — The Blue-Gray National Collegiate Tennis Classic, a venerable institution in collegiate tennis, is set to make history as it relocates half of the tournament for the first time from Montgomery to the vibrant Fields of 17 Springs in Millbrook, AL. The 76th edition of this prestigious tournament is scheduled to take place February 23-24, 2024.
17 Springs is the result of a successful partnership between the City of Millbrook, the Elmore County Commission, the Greater Montgomery YMCA, the Elmore County Board of Education, and the Elmore County Economic Development Authority. This collaborative effort has given rise to a state-of-the-art entertainment and recreational district that serves as the perfect venue for the Blue-Gray Tennis Tournament.
The Fields at 17 Springs Phase 1 opened August 2023 and includes four multipurpose turf fields, one grass field, 12 tennis courts, and 12 pickleball courts. Phase II is slated to open in early 2025 and will include an 86,000 square foot multipurpose event center called the “Field House,” another multipurpose turf field located inside a stadium/event venue, a competition track with field events, and six diamond fields for softball and baseball use.
Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley expressed his excitement about hosting the prestigious event, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome the Blue-Gray National Collegiate Tennis Classic to 17 Springs Sports . This historic tournament aligns perfectly with our commitment to promoting sports and community engagement in Millbrook.”
For over four decades, the Blue-Gray National Collegiate Tennis Classic has stood out in the world of collegiate tennis tournaments, gaining national recognition for its unique hospitality format. Notable tennis programs from across the country, including USC, Pepperdine, Notre Dame, Harvard, Illinois, Florida, Michigan, Georgia, and local favorites Alabama and Auburn, have participated, making it a must-watch event for tennis enthusiasts.
Elmore County Commission Chairman Bart Mercer states, “We are thrilled to host the prestigious Blue[1]Gray Tennis Tournament at 17 Springs in Millbrook. This marks the first time the tournament ventures beyond Montgomery, emphasizing our region’s growth and commitment to world-class sports events.”
What sets the Blue-Gray apart is its distinctive southern hospitality, with tennis fans in Montgomery traditionally opening their homes to players throughout the tournament. Lifelong friendships have flourished between players and host families, creating a unique bond that extends beyond the tennis court.
“Without a doubt, the Blue-Gray National Collegiate Tennis Classic is considered one of the top tennis events in the country by college coaches,” says Blue-Gray President Kimberly Mathews. “We are thrilled to extend this tradition to the beautiful facilities at 17 Springs Sports Complex in Millbrook.”
The move to Millbrook is anticipated to add a new dimension to the Blue-Gray legacy, and tennis fans from across the region are eagerly anticipating the tournament’s inaugural edition in its new home.
For further information, contact:
Blue-Gray Tournament Media Relations Kimberly Matthews at bluegraytennis@gmail.com
17 Springs Media Relations- Bill Myers at bmyers@ymcamontgomery.org
For more information about 17 Springs visit their website at 17springs.org
