Norris tennis courts to be funded by United States Tennis Association

FIRTH, Neb. - A national association has stepped up in a big way in the building of tennis courts for a southeast Nebraska school district. 

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has provided the Norris School District with $140,000 to expand the Titan Activities Sports Complex. The complex first became operational this April for baseball games while tennis remains under construction. 

Norris Vice Principal and Activities Director Mitchell Stine says the partnership will help Norris students for generations to come. 

"We know we're building the courts the right way and we know we're building it in a way that will help thousands of kids that will go through Norris," Stine said. "We're really excited about it. It's been a great partnership with the USTA and it's been nothing, but above board thinking so we're really excited about it."

Stine says Norris' girls tennis team had to travel long distances to practice, but now will be able to showcase their home courts. 

"Our kids reaction to the news that they can play baseball here, play tennis and practice tennis here has been great," Stine said. "They want to be here, this is their home and where they go everyday. To be able to show off your home courts to others is a special special thing."

On top of the funding from the USTA, the USTA Missouri Valley granted the district an additional $12,000. Stine says they plan to use the tennis courts for summer activities and they will be fully operational for the spring season in 2026.