Build More Tennis Courts at Loma Alta Park

Dear Los Angeles Parks and Recreation,

We, the members of the community, are writing to express our support for building additional tennis courts at Loma Alta Park. Tennis is a beloved sport in our community, and we believe that additional courts will provide more opportunities for both children and adults to stay active and healthy. Many of us have struggled to find available tennis courts and services in the area, making access to the sport difficult for those who do not have private facilities. Furthermore, adding new tennis courts will provide more opportunities for local coaches and trainers to offer their services. This will allow residents in the area to participate in group and private lessons, league teams, tournaments and it will promote social engagement and community building.

We have desired extra tennis courts at Loma Alta Park for many years and now it is necessary. The additional courts will increase the number service offered to the community like social tournaments, adult and junior league teams, competitive tournaments, and, equipment services. 70% of all tennis is played at public facilities, either free or for very little cost. Because of its wide appeal, the sport aligns with National Recreation and Park Association’s Health and Wellness and Social Equity Pillars and the increase in revenues would help pay for the maintenance and up keep of the facility.

The Tennis Industry Association is reporting that there are over 23.6 million tennis player in the U.S. as of 2023. A 33% increase since 2020. Tennis has historically been a core program for public parks and recreation departments.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends a mixture of moderate-to-vigorousintensity activity for 40 minutes at a time, three or four days per week, to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Playing tennis is also good for your heart health. In fact the study found that people who participated in racket sports had a 59% reduction incardiovascular disease mortality and a 47% reduction in all-cause mortality

PHYSICAL HEALTH Tennis is ideal for long-term health benefits. Tennis also fights the inactivity pandemic that has gripped the United States across all age groups. The sport gets people moving and reduces obesity rates. Research shows that overweight and physically inactive children have lower IQs and do not perform as well academically compared to children who are physically fit.

SOCIAL HEALTH The vast majority of organized tennis is played through leagues. Leagues are made up of teams of 15 to 20 players, and the majority of league matches are the doubles format. Tennis creates a network of friends who socialize beyond the court; this is vital today as technology often isolates people. For children and students, tennis teaches important life lessons about working together and working as a team.

MENTAL HEALTH Because tennis helps deal with physical, mental, social, and emotional challenges, the sport is ideal for helping participants cope with stress. When playing tennis, challenges are ever-present, so individuals become problem-solvers on the fly. From alertness to tactical thinking, tennis helps keep the brain agile and young, and helps to relieve tension.

We urge you not to overlook this opportunity to enhance Loma Alta Park facilities by adding new tennis courts. Thank you for addressing our needs.

Sincerely,
Altadena Community Members