In the spring of 2005, the San Diego State women's and men's tennis programs began play at the SDSU Tennis Stadium courts, located on the western edge of campus.

The brand new, 12-court, tennis complex was made possible due to the generosity of San Diego Padres owner John Moores.

The 12 courts are surfaced with Plexicushion Prestige surfacing which is a similar surface to what is used at the National Tennis Center, home of the U.S. Open, in New York.

The opening of the tennis center has been long anticipated by both San Diego State tennis programs. It is one of the finest collegiate facilities on the west coast and one of the few in the nation to utilize the state-of-the-art surface material.

Plexicushion entails six coats of liquid cushion squeezed onto the base, which provides for uniform bounce, as well as, being easier on the legs due to the increased cushion.

"We are very excited to be playing at our new home this season," said women's head coach Peter Mattera. "It is an excellent showcase for our nationally ranked women's and men's tennis teams."

"We were able to maintain our national standing while playing on an extremely antiquated facility," Mattera added. "Both Gene Carswell (men's head coach) and I feel that with the addition of the SDSU Tennis Stadium, we can take a big leap forward nationally."

Carswell certainly feels the same way.

"I am excited that our new facility is open. For us to be able to play two dual matches at the one time is going to allow us to run some collegiate events here, some different tournaments that we just have not been able to host," Carswell said.

"As far as a recruiting tool, it is one of the best facilities in the country, bar none," the head coach said. "So we're really excited to be playing at our new home and posting some victories and some championships there."

Currently, the women's program ranks 12th nationally in all-time NCAA Tournament appearances.

In addition to the 12 tennis courts, the new tennis stadium includes a 2,000-square foot tennis center with a team room, office space and a multi-purpose room.

The central room will feature an adjoining, covered patio that will provide a very fan-friendly environment, as well as the ability to host tournaments, receptions and athletic functions.

With its prime location, the tennis complex is one of the final pieces of the puzzle of San Diego State athletics. The courts are nestled next to Tony Gwynn Stadium and are surrounded by the new softball stadium, three football practice fields, the SDSU Sports Deck and a new pool set to open in 2006.

In addition, Cox Arena is within walking distance, which truly makes the westside of campus the home for Aztec athletics. Moreover, the facility is situated behind the Aztec Athletics Center, which will allow student-athletes easy access to some of the top training personnel and weightlifting facilities on the west coast.