From home court to modern tennis centre: Sladki Vrh TK celebrates and gets new club premises

The opening of a new sports facility in the region attracted numerous visitors, with the event drawing attention due to its significance for local sports clubs and community engagement. The official inauguration of the new acquisition by the Tennis Club Sladki Vrh took place on Friday, September 4th, starting at 2 pm. The ceremony marked not only the unveiling of the new club facilities but also the 35th anniversary of the club's operations. This milestone was celebrated with a special event that highlighted the club’s long-standing contribution to the local sports scene. The story of the tennis club began over three decades ago when the initial idea for a tennis court emerged from the efforts of several key individuals. These included the late former president Borut Kocbek, Jože and Marinka Friš, the late Marjan Jarc, Silvio Vink, Sivč, and the then manager Dušan Vrgin. According to current president Igor Friš, these pioneers were instrumental in the formation of the club. Initially, the club started operating on an asphalt court located near the Friš family home, which had previously been used for farming activities. As agricultural conditions changed, the vision for a tennis court took shape, leading to the opening of the first court in 1991. This marked the beginning of a journey that has now spanned 35 years. In 2013, the club launched a tennis school, which has since grown significantly. Today, more than 60 children participate in the program. The expansion of the facility was driven by the need for better infrastructure, including locker rooms and sanitation facilities. With support from the Municipality of Šentilj, the club was able to construct these essential spaces, enhancing both training and recreational opportunities for members. The new facility includes two tennis courts that became operational during the summer season of 2022. A further upgrade in 2023 saw the completion of a supporting sports building, which was put into use this year. Additionally, the third tennis court is currently under construction, indicating the club's ongoing commitment to growth and improvement. The sports park now features a football pitch, a pump track, and a basketball court alongside the tennis center, offering a diverse range of activities for all age groups. The club collaborates with local organizations such as ŽTK Maribor and Branik, contributing to the broader sports ecosystem in the area. The club has achieved notable success, particularly through its tennis school. In 2025, their players secured a spot in the first Slovenian men's team league. Individual achievements include Žan Friš winning first place at a tournament organized by the Slovenian Tennis Association, both as an individual and in doubles. The club competes in all categories from 12 to 18 years old, demonstrating consistent performance and dedication to youth development. In recent years, the club has consistently placed among the top teams in Slovenia. For instance, their under-12 team finished fourth nationally in 2023, while the under-18 team advanced to the semifinals in 2025 before being defeated by the Ljubljana-based TK Slovan. This year, the senior team ranked among the top six in the country, showcasing the club's sustained excellence and competitive spirit.