Prairie Dunes launches new USTA programs under Colin Gillam’s leadership

17 Oct Prairie Dunes launches new USTA programs under Colin Gillam’s leadership

Posted at 18:14h in Local by
0 Likes

Prairie Dunes Country Club in Hutchinson, Kansas will begin offering exciting new USTA programming this fall led by Director of Racquets Colin Gillam. New to that role, Gillam brings over 20 years of racquet sports coaching and leadership to the club, and he has led successful programs at clubs across the country. He’s eager to bring new play opportunities to his new city.

Gillam stated he’s “excited to bring his experience and passion to Prairie Dunes,” where his goal is “to build a thriving, welcoming community of players connected through tennis.”

A lifelong tennis player, Gillam has a positive, high-energy approach to coaching. He shared that he wants to give all players the tools they need to improve “whether they’re juniors competing nationally, adults preparing for league play or beginners discovering the sport for the first time.”

New programs at the club aim to get players of all ages and levels of experience to fall in love with tennis.

Starting this fall, Prairie Dunes will offer a Red Ball Tennis program to introduce adults to a sport they can play well into their golden years. Cardio Tennis will also be added to the schedule as well as refreshed programs for junior players of all levels.

“I’m very proud of our revamped junior programs, starting with our red ball kids and going up to the high school players,” Gillam said.

These new additions come on the heels of Gillam helping form the club’s first USTA Kansas League team in at least 10 years—a fall tri-level session—and plans are underway to expand adult league play.

He plans to help introduce other opportunities for members to hit the courts, such as UTR matchplay events, which will create opportunities for juniors and adults to track their progress and enjoy some competition.

“Our goal is to make Prairie Dunes a hub for fun, competitive tennis in central Kansas for our members,” Gillam said. “We want to build a pathway for players of all ages and levels while keeping the game welcoming and accessible.”