Bailey Road Park Complex Wins USTA Award

Modern Strike owner Jeremy Martin oversees tennis programming at Bailey Road Park

The new Bailey Road Park Tennis Court Complex has received a 2026 Outstanding Facility Award from the United States Tennis Association.

The award recognizes facilities that support the growth of tennis through facility development, programming and service to their communities. Bailey Road Park was recognized in the Large Public Facilities category.

Cornelius Parks & Recreation Director Troy Fitzsimmons and Assistant Director Adam Abernathy accepted the award Aug. 31 during the U.S. Open in New York.

The 12-court complex opened in October 2025. All 12 courts are lighted.

The facility was developed through a partnership involving the Town of Cornelius, USTA, USTA Southern, USTA North Carolina and the Lake Norman Tennis Association. Financial support from the organizations allowed the town to expand the project’s original Phase I plan from six courts to 12.

Since opening, the complex has hosted instructional and social programs, junior and adult league play, school-based tennis, tournaments and other activities.

Programming is offered through partnerships with Modern Strike, the Lake Norman Tennis Association, Bailey Middle School and others.

Additional improvements are planned for 2027 as part of the bond package voters approved in xxx, including shade structures and a restroom building.

The USTA Outstanding Facility Award recognizes facilities based on their development, programming and contributions to the communities they serve.