Pell City Men's 65+ Tennis Team Wins National Title

The men's 65+ tennis team from Pell City, Alabama, just made history by winning their first-ever National Championship, proving that passion and dedication know no age limits.

The team clinched the title in Surprise, Arizona, in January after taking down top programs from the Midwest and Florida. This marks the first national championship in the history of Pell City's tennis program, based at the Pell City Civic Center.

"People always asked us along the way, 'How many days a week do y'all play?'" said team member Darryl Hardy. "I always tell them, 'A week? Don't you mean how many times a day?'"

The road to nationals required serious work. The team first secured the state championship in Dothan before sweeping through other state champions at the Southwest Regionals in Memphis.

Tennis Pro Sarah Stewart highlighted just how impressive this victory is. Pell City defeated national tennis hubs with thousands of members, including clubs from Southern California and Naples, Florida.

On February 9, team members attended a city council meeting wearing their championship medals, which many admitted they've worn regularly in public since winning. Several players said they "know now what it feels like to win a Super Bowl."

The Ripple Effect

This victory reflects years of building a supportive and competitive culture at the Pell City Tennis Center. Stewart credited team captain Ronnie McFarling for his leadership throughout the tournament and Craig Tumlin for organizing the men's program.

She also recognized tennis instructors Bronson Tucker and Clint Brewer for developing talent across all skill levels in the community. Their dedication has created a program where players of any age can compete at the highest levels.

The Pell City Tennis Center will display the team's National Championship sign at the local courts, inspiring future generations to pick up a racket and chase their own dreams.