I have such fond memories of scoring US Open tickets a kid, roaming the grounds, and sitting slack-jawed in awe of all the incredible talent. (This was the McEnroe days. I’m that old. ) But back then, they didn’t have anything like the annual Arthur Ashe Kids Day, which is coming up this Saturday.
If you’re lucky enough to be in the NY area, it’s totally worth a trip. In addition to getting to watch amazing athletes like Serena Williams, and Maria Sharipova (which honestly, would be enough), there’s an entire 2 hour big deal kind of stadium show, and the profits all benefit Arthur Ashe’s National Junior Tennis and Learning Network which helps brings tennis to kids around the country.
Think: Performances from Will Ferrell (G-rated no doubt), an appearance from Andy Roddick, MTV Vjays Quddus and Susie Castillo, and some tuneage courtesy of Jordin Sparks from that American Idol show I hear the kids are into these days. And still more. Off-stage you’ll also find interactive games for kids and fun stuff like face painting, hair braiding and player autographs. Plus a second stage has got up-and-coming family-friendly NYC acts. Sounds like tennis’s answer to Lollapalooza.
The tickets cost $10-$20 but if you just hit the interactive clinics on the grounds, it’s free and open to the public.
If you’re not in NY, watch the broadcast on CBS Sunday at? noon, and maybe inspire your kids to pick up an actual racket instead of just the Wii remote. –Liz
Read more about the Arthur Ashe Kids Day on their MySpace page (you know, for kids) or at the US Open website.
Congratulations to Arline S., lucky winner of the Arthur Ashe Kids Day event tickets!
