Osten & Victor Alberta Tennis Centre announces expansion as it celebrates 10 years of community impact
CALGARY, Alberta — The Osten & Victor Alberta Tennis Centre (ATC) has announced plans for a significant expansion of its existing facility, celebrating a decade of service to Calgary and the tennis community. The proposed development aims to enhance year-round access to tennis, improve community amenities, and solidify Calgary’s standing as a key destination for tennis development in Canada.
The expansion intends to add eight indoor courts, which would increase public access to tennis by 62 percent. Plans also include a new reception building featuring change rooms, washrooms, and office space, as well as 89 additional parking stalls, enhanced landscaping, improved lighting, and security features, and a designated area for passenger drop-off and pick-up. Future phases of the project will focus on additional seasonal outdoor courts and other public amenities, with input sought from the Acadia Community Association.
“Our vision has always been to create the best community-based tennis development centre in North America while ensuring tennis remains accessible, welcoming and affordable for everyone,” said Danny Da Costa, Chief Executive Officer of the Osten & Victor Alberta Tennis Centre. He noted that the expansion will allow the Centre to serve thousands more residents each year, meet the rising demand for court access, and contribute to community development.
Since opening in 2016, the Centre has become one of Canada’s leading tennis facilities, providing over 71,000 hours of court access annually and introducing more than 70,000 children to tennis through school programs. In addition, the Centre has partnered with over 30 community organizations to enhance access to the sport and hosted various national and international events, generating significant economic impact for Calgary.
Gavin Ziv, Chief Executive Officer of Tennis Canada, expressed enthusiasm about the Centre’s anniversary and proposed expansion. “Tennis has seen incredible growth over the last few years, and it is our continued mission to expand access to the game for all Canadians,” Ziv stated. He emphasized the importance of the added indoor courts in improving community access to tennis.
The announcement comes as the Centre reflects on the legacy of Al Osten, one of its founding donors, who passed away earlier this year. His contributions, alongside Buddy Victor, were instrumental in establishing the facility. Ron Ghitter, the founder of the Osten & Victor Alberta Tennis Centre, acknowledged their commitment to philanthropy and its lasting impact on the community.
As part of its 10-year anniversary celebration, the ATC will premiere a documentary titled "The First 10 Years," which highlights the facility’s impact on the community. The Centre continues to focus on its mission of promoting tennis and fostering community connections as it moves into its second decade.