Resurfacing project begins at Augspurger CourtsSturgis Public Schools receives $34K USTA grant toward cost

Power-washing at Augspurger Tennis Courts in Sturgis, the first phase of a resurfacing project. The district has received a grant to use toward cost. Dennis Volkert/Sentinel

Resurfacing of Augspurger Tennis Courts is underway in Sturgis.
The resurfacing process started this week, with preparation that included pressure-washing. Next phase is acrylic, paint and lining. After that, about 48 hours are required to dry and cure before the surface is playable. The courts are closed for duration of the project.
In connection with the project, United States Tennis Association has awarded a $34,000 grant to Sturgis Public Schools, which owns the courts. Funding will help to defray some of the expense.
The grant is part of US Open Legacy Initiative, created in celebration of Coco Gauff’s 2023 US Open women’s singles title. As part of the initiative, USTA has pledged $3 million to refurbish tennis courts throughout the U.S.

“Tennis has been enjoyed by both youth and adults in Sturgis for generations,” said Art Ebert, superintendent at Sturgis Public Schools. “Support of the US Open Legacy Initiative, alongside support from Sturgis Area Community Foundation’s Augspurger Fund, will keep that tradition going by fully funding the $76,700 resurfacing project.”
The 12 courts, in addition to the six courts under construction at Sturgis Middle School and four at Doyle Community Center, will give Sturgis 22 public courts, Ebert said.
“In combination, these 22 courts will expand tennis programming opportunities throughout the community,” he said. “We anticipate being able to offer more tennis lessons, drills and tournaments, which will expand tennis participation locally and bring people from the surrounding region to Sturgis.”
Construction of the middle school playing surface is expected to be complete by late-August.
Gauff said investing in public parks and youth is important.
“I strongly believe that tennis can continue to become a more accessible sport, and I would like to thank the USTA for continuing to commit to do so,” she said.
Gauff has won seven singles titles and nine doubles championships.
The US Open Legacy Initiative is part of the USTA’s goal to support tennis infrastructure through facility enhancements and construction, led by USTA’s Tennis Venue Services department.
Grant recipients also receive start-to-finish project management assistance from the TVS team.