Noel Clayton: A Tennis Advocate in Owensboro
Noel Clayton, who serves as a coach, instructor, and general manager at Merchant Centre Court, has been a key figure in promoting tennis in the Owensboro area for many years. His commitment to increasing interest in the sport is evident as he highlights the multiple venues available for play, including the Owensboro Tennis Complex, which features 12 outdoor courts, and Centre Court, with six indoor options, along with additional courts at Moreland Park. With such facilities at their disposal, Clayton believes there are ample opportunities for residents to engage in tennis, whether as beginners or looking to improve their skills.
“Tennis is thriving at the moment,” Clayton stated recently.
He mentioned the exciting adult red ball program held on Thursday evenings, which utilizes a slower ball and longer racquets on outside pickleball courts, designed to boost beginners’ confidence and skill sets.
Opportunities for Major Events
Owensboro’s state-of-the-art facilities position it well for hosting significant sporting events. Clayton pointed out a decrease in available tennis courts in larger cities like Louisville and Lexington, creating an opportunity for Owensboro to attract major tournaments. He envisions teaming up with Henderson to organize substantial events, estimating that as many as 800 participants could be drawn to these competitions, including major tournaments for players over 18 and over 40.
One of the notable events scheduled for this summer is the 2025 Junior Team Tennis State Championship from August 9 to 11, which is expected to feature around 70 players. Additionally, Centre Court will host the Great Midwest Athletic Conference tournament in partnership with Kentucky Wesleyan College.
Nurturing Young Talent
Clayton also prioritizes nurturing young talent through tennis. He has proposed to host the All ‘A’ state tennis tournament at the Owensboro Tennis Complex starting next year, aiming for May 1-2. The event would comprise numerous matches featuring championship games for both boys’ and girls’ teams, which he believes would greatly benefit the local tennis community.
In collaboration with the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA), he is hopeful of bringing team state championships to Owensboro as well. Clayton is optimistic that if the All ‘A’ tournament is successful, it could pave the way for hosting one of the most outstanding tournaments in the state.
Reflections on Coaching
Reflecting on his coaching journey, Clayton recently celebrated the Owensboro Catholic High School Aces’ achievement of reaching the KHSAA Boys’ Tennis Team State Tournament semifinals for the first time, an exhilarating experience that ended with a narrow 3-2 defeat against state runner-up Paul Laurence Dunbar. Clayton remarked on the thrill that came with the team playing not just for personal accolades but also for one another.
At 65, Clayton has dedicated 19 years to coaching boys’ tennis at Owensboro Catholic High, following five years as an assistant under his wife, Brenda. His dedication to the sport was recognized when he was named the Boys’ Coach of the Year by the Kentucky High School Tennis Coaches Association. Reflecting on his extensive involvement in tennis, he humorously acknowledged,
“I never expected to do this for 24 years, but it has been a rewarding experience.”
