A History of Tennis at UCLA: From Lake Arrowhead to Westwood
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has a rich and diverse history of tennis, spanning from recreational facilities at the UCLA Lake Arrowhead Conference Center to the competitive courts of the Los Angeles Tennis Center in Westwood. This article explores the evolution of tennis at UCLA, highlighting key milestones, facilities, and the vibrant Bruin Club Tennis program.
Early Beginnings at Lake Arrowhead
The story of UCLA tennis begins in an unexpected location: the UCLA Lake Arrowhead Conference Center. Originally built in 1922, the property, then known as the Arrowhead Lake Company, was acquired in 1957 and gifted to the University of California, with the stipulation that it serve an educational purpose. The 42-acre site, featuring a Normandy-style lodge nestled among oak and pine forests, included amenities such as cozy cabins, a swimming pool, and, notably, tennis courts.
Prior to becoming a UCLA property, the area had a colorful past. In 1891, three Ohio businessmen, including James Proctor of Proctor & Gamble, established the Arrowhead Reservoir Company, recognizing the potential of Little Bear Valley as a reservoir site. By the 1920s, with the dam completed, the Arrowhead Lake Company transformed the area into a resort destination, attracting Hollywood's elite. The main lodge served as the North Shore Tavern, and a Normandy-style village emerged, complete with a dance pavilion, outdoor movie theater, restaurant, beach, bathhouse, a 9-hole golf course, and three hotels.
In 1982, leadership of the Lake Arrowhead property was transferred to UCLA, with the support of Chancellor Charles E. Young and others. A significant makeover took place in 1983-1984 to prepare the site, known as Bruin Woods, for its first families. The Main Lodge was expanded, guest cottages were remodeled, and the tennis courts and grounds were upgraded.
Bruin Woods welcomed its first vacationers in the summer of 1985. Since then, numerous improvements have been made, including the addition of an archery range, ropes course, and enhancements to programmed activities. These ongoing improvements have allowed Bruin Woods to thrive for over three decades.
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The Los Angeles Tennis Center: A Westwood Landmark
While Lake Arrowhead provided early recreational tennis opportunities, the Los Angeles Tennis Center (LATC) became the home of UCLA's competitive tennis programs. Opened on May 20, 1984, the LATC hosted the demonstration tennis event of the 1984 Summer Olympics. The UCLA Bruins men's tennis team moved to the facility in 1985, followed by the women's team in 1997.
The LATC has a main grandstand surrounding three courts, with a seating capacity of 5,800 spectators. The center also hosted the Los Angeles Open, an ATP World Tour 250 event.
Beyond tennis, the LATC has served as a venue for other significant events, including the annual "Spring Sing," UCLA's student talent show, and the presentation of the George and Ira Gershwin Award.
Bruin Club Tennis: A Thriving Community
In the fall of 2002, UCLA graduate student Mark Otten, with assistance from Val Castro at UCLA Recreation, founded an intramural tennis league. Enrollment grew from around 30 people to 200 participants by the fall of 2006. Anthony Horsley joined as an administrator in spring 2003. In 2010, the UCLA intramural office took over the league, and the current version of UCLA Club Tennis was officially established.
Bruin Club Tennis has grown significantly, with the 2017-2018 season reaching nearly 300 members. The club has two main components: a general club and a competitive team.
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The general club is open to players of all skill levels, offering a social and recreational outlet. Members can participate in events such as game nights and outings. "Squads," smaller groups led by club officers, foster a sense of community within the larger club.
The competitive team is for more advanced players who compete in tournaments throughout California.
Both the general club and competitive team are administered by UCLA Recreation as part of the UCLA Club Sports programs. Practices are held twice a week throughout the school year.
Membership in Bruin Club Tennis requires a fee, which helps fund the club's activities. Financial aid is also available.
Bruin Club Tennis welcomes new players of all skill levels, emphasizing enthusiasm and a love for the game.
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