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Bob & Gayle Nichols Tennis Complex
The tennis courts at the Bob and Gayle Nichols Tennis Complex have been resurfaced for the first time in over ten years (Nov. 2024) with new purple and grey coloring and additional YH branding. This project, carried out by Signature Tennis Courts, was not only essential for player safety, but also provides the student-athletes and the community with a top-notch facility they can take pride in.
"We're thrilled to be able to provide our tennis programs and the local community with fresh, new courts to practice and compete on," said Athletic Director Aaron Bessey. "I want to give special thanks to Bob and Gayle Nichols, the namesake for our tennis complex, for their support, as well as our Director of Tennis Marcy O'Connor for her leadership on this project working with Mike Imbornone and his first-class team at Signature Tennis Courts."
"This resurfacing project marks the first upgrade in 11 years and was essential not only for player safety but to provide our community with a facility to be proud of," said Director of Tennis Marcy O'Connor. "The new purple and gray colors, along with YHC logos, now reflect our school spirit and commitment to excellence, giving current players a sense of pride and ownership in this transformation."
"Having a facility like this strengthens our recruiting, drawing strong players who value a program that invests in its facilities and strives for excellence. This upgrade makes us one of the premier tennis destinations in the southeast, thanks to the support from Athletic Director Aaron Bessey, President Dr. Van Horn, and the YHC Tennis community.
We're grateful for the opportunity to offer a facility that embodies the pride and dedication of our players and supporters."
Before resurfacing, the courts had issues with wear and cracks that affected playability, while also leading to safety issues for players. This six-figure project fixes these issues and adds a YHC look that's in line with the Athletic Department's branding. The new purple and grey colors along with the YH logo provide a fresh look and a true home feel during competition.
The new courts elevate Young Harris' presence in the tennis world as well, allowing Young Harris College to host ITA, USTA and USA Tennis tournaments.
"First of all, what an amazing facility. Second, the color combination Young Harris chose for the courts, is incredible," said Signature Tennis Courts owner Mike Imbornone. "It is the first time we have used this color combination, and in my opinion, best looking color on the market. We truly enjoyed working with Aaron Bessey and Marcy O'Connor on this great resurfacing project."
The team will continue to hone their skills practicing on the new surface and have a true home court advantage in the spring.
Bob & Gayle Nichols Tennis Complex
Completed in August 2010, the Bob & Gayle Nichols Tennis Complex is located on Highway 76 and is home to the College's men's and women's tennis teams. The complex features 12 lighted tournament-quality courts. In 2012, the complex was named to honor Dr. Bob and Gayle Nichols for their distinguished years of service to YHC. Bob taught math, coached tennis and served as director of academic advising, while Gayle served as the senior college counselor, until retiring in 2009 after more than 30 years of service.
