The Dow Tennis Classic is so much more than tennis - it’s empowering a community! Each year 4,000+ children and young adults learn and grow from their experiences in outreach programs designed just for them.

Pros to the Schools / Schools to the Matches

In partnership with The Dow, we take the touring pros to the local schools and inviting school groups to come to the Dow Tennis Classic to experience world-class tennis. The students hear from the pros about reaching for your dreams, achieving personal excellence, and about cultural diversity. During the week, approximately 30 touring pros will interact with 3,000 students from 32 schools in the Great Lakes Bay Region.

“Think Smart. Dream Big!”

At-risk youth from area alternative high schools enjoy a special day designed just for them at the Dow Tennis Classic. The students get an intro into the game of tennis, a free racquet to keep, lunch, as well as the opportunity to watch a match, hear from a motivational speaker and meet one of the touring pros. Approximately 90 teens from three schools participate in the event along with 3 touring pros.

High School Play Day

Held on the first Saturday of tournament week, it offers high school teams an opportunity to bring their students out to train with the touring pros, hear from a professional athletic trainer, and enjoy a clinic on strength and flexibility. Three hundred students from 20 schools throughout Michigan participate along with 8 Touring Pros.

Kids' Fun Day!

At this event, sponsored by The Dow, our teaching staff offers a fun-filled event which draws children from across our community to experience tennis in a unique way. An introduction to tennis using the latest QuickStart methods and equipment on 10 courts gets youngsters playing, and loving the game of tennis. Afterward, the 250 kids hear from touring pros who talk about life on the road and the importance of education.

High School / Collegiate Educational Opportunities

Three hundred area students gain real world experience through the Dow Tennis Classic. Promotions are planned by college event management students, catering is offered through culinary arts programs, security is provided by criminal justice students, and signs and banners are produced by graphic arts students.