John Newcombe Tennis Ranch: Where Each Guest is a Priority
Jordana Klein
See why Team-Family-Team is the motto at this Texas-based resort.
Any guests that have attended an adult weekend or weeklong camp at the John Newcombe Tennis Ranch can attest that the program is special. From the time on court, to the atmosphere of the whole Ranch, Newk’s is a very unique place which is evident from the time the guest checks in. The fun and informative vibe that former World Champion John Newcombe instilled still permeates the Ranch, and his influence is undeniable.
If one were to ask guests about the highlight of their trip, a number of different answers will come up. The incredible staff is often a standout, as they spend much of the weekend assisting guests on court and hanging out off court. From eating meals together to spending time at the world-famous Billabong bar in the evenings, the pros are both coaches and entertainers throughout one’s trip. With a guest to pro ratio of 4 or 5 to one, each guest will leave having received some one-on-one attention, including a plethora of tips to continue working on their game at home. Many guests have said that after returning year after year, the pros, besides being good coaches, have also become good friends. A saying that one will find on a number of t-shirts in the Newk’s Pro Shop is Team-Family-Team, which can genuinely be felt in the atmosphere both on and off-court at the Ranch.
While tennis programs at the Ranch are fully customizable based on each guest’s fitness level and tennis goals, one component that stands out at Newk’s is the sheer volume of playing time. The greatest tennis enthusiast will leave feeling exhausted and as though they received the maximum amount of on-court time. No matter the level, every player that attends an adult camp at Newk’s will receive coaching to help improve their game.
Fortunately, in the event of rain, Newk’s boasts four covered hard courts. Though sometimes modified due to court space, sessions will continue for up to six hours a day. The general consensus is that those looking for a serious tennis vacation would be hard-pressed to find a resort with better value than the John Newcombe Tennis Ranch.
Weeklong, weekend, and customized packages at Newk’s will include meals, all served buffet style in the Waltzing Matilda. The food is delicious and plentiful and will fuel guests for their long day on the court. The kitchen staff is friendly and approachable and can easily accommodate for any food allergies or dietary restrictions. With all the time spent on court, guests won’t be hesitant to indulge in seconds.
When it comes to après-tennis activities, the full-service bar is top notch. Many reviews will mention chatting with the bartender, Jamie, who is attentive and makes sure each guest is comfortable with their libations of choice. Karaoke parties are a weekend staple at the Ranch, with guests and pros participating, often late into the night.
Aside from the extensive facilities, the abundance of beautiful live oak trees and the Texas hill country grounds at Newk’s will make anyone’s visit a joy. The pool and hot tub are centrally located and are accessible throughout the year. While the pool isn’t heated, the Texas weather makes the temperature manageable for much of the year. The pavilion is also a fun area to relax, with many guests opting to make s’mores, play games such as cornhole and ping pong, or simply enjoy drinks outdoors.
Every aspect of a visit at Newk’s makes sure that guests leave feeling as though they’ve improved and are now a part of the Team-Family and ready to book their next visit. The right combination of fun and intensity on the tennis court is hard to balance, but the staff at the John Newcombe Tennis Ranch certainly has it down to a science.
Jordana has blended her passion for racquet sports with her on-court skills as Tennis Resorts Online's Travel Editor. After competing at the Division 1 collegiate level, Jordana's journey led her to hold marketing positions with organizations such as the USTA, IMG's Miami Open, and IMG Academy. She continues to share her love for the game across TRO's network and on tennis and pickleball courts in the Tampa Bay area.
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