DeSoto Residents Advocate for Madison Ace Racquet Sports Program's Reinstatement

The DeSoto City Council meeting on August 19, 2025, focused heavily on the future of the Madison Ace Racquet Sports program at Thorn Tree Golf Club, which has recently faced shutdown. Community members expressed their concerns and shared personal testimonies about the program's impact on local health and community engagement.

Several residents, including Shana Hamilton Gates and Tatiana Williams, spoke passionately about the importance of the racquet sports program, highlighting its role in promoting physical activity and mental well-being. Williams emphasized that Madison Ace is the only organized tennis program in DeSoto, serving over 200 participants weekly and fostering a sense of community. She urged the council to collaborate with Madison Ace to reinstate the program, noting its economic benefits for local businesses as families travel to participate.

Doctor Marlene Holmes, a sports social worker, presented data linking physical activity, such as tennis, to improved mental health outcomes, particularly in combating depression and anxiety. She underscored the program's significance for all age groups, from toddlers to seniors, and called for its continuation to support community health.

Other speakers, including long-time tennis players and community members, echoed these sentiments, expressing disappointment over the abrupt cessation of the program and the lack of communication regarding its future. They urged the council to take a more active role in managing the facility and ensuring that a viable tennis program is reinstated.

The council members acknowledged the community's concerns but noted that decisions regarding the program would need to be discussed further in future meetings. The overall sentiment from the community was clear: the Madison Ace program is not just about tennis; it is a vital part of the social fabric of DeSoto, contributing to health, happiness, and community cohesion. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining the future of racquet sports in the area.