When most people think of tennis in Queens, they automatically think of the U.S. Open held every summer in Flushing at the USTA Tennis Center. Or, possibly they think of Forest Hills where the Open used to be played. But, there are two wonderful centers for tennis players in Eastern Queens. One is located right here in Fresh Meadows at 196th Street on Union Turnpike, The Cunningham Tennis Center. Another, a few blocks east, is the Alley Pond Tennis Center. Both are vibrant hubs for the sport.

At Cunningham Park, Manager Nestor Jerez runs several tennis programs for players of all ages. Starting with Quick Start for 10 years old and under and ranging to Senior Programs, there is something here for tennis players of all ages and all levels. Currently and until the end of April, there are ten indoor courts under the bubble. Bill Anthony Racho skillfully runs the Junior and Adult Programs. Private and group lessons under the tutelage of their skilled teaching pros are available for beginners through tournament-level players. They can be reached at 718 740-6800.

At Alley Pond, there are eleven indoor courts run by owner, operator, and teaching pro-Hemel Meglani-Cosme, her husband John, and Carole Watson, Director of Tennis Programs. This is another hub of tennis activity ranging from Junior and Adult Programs to private lessons. There is a quite nice Pro Shop for tennis attire, tennis racquets, and racquet restringing. Saturday Night Tennis Parties are a blast. You can contact them at 718 264-2600.

If you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced tennis player, or if you just want to have fun meeting other people, tennis is very alive and thriving at these two centers near Fresh Meadows, Queens.