Tournament bag checklist

Kristianne Bontempo | Towpath Tennis Employee | Legit Tennis Fanatic

With the Akron Open days away, we wanted to help our competitors prepare for their matches by creating a checklist of necessary equipment/accessories you should have during a tournament weekend.

1. At least 2 racquets - If one string were to break, you'll have a backup ready to go.
2. Water and lots of it - You should be drinking water on EVERY changeover. Make sure you provide yourself with enough water to get through a possible 3hr match, especially on a hot day. Never assume the facility has water on the courts.
3. Hat, visor, sunglasses, sunblock if outside - Having to serve in the sun is just as painful as having burnt shoulders that are hot to the touch. Make sure to protect your eyes and your skin.
4. Spare clothing - For those ultra sweaty moments whether it's a change in shirt, sweatbands, socks, or shoes.
5. Wallet - In case you need money for vending, nearby restaurants, or a last minute stop at the pro shop for stringing.
6. Small first aid kit - Be prepared with some basic essentials; band-aids, medical tape, ibuprofen, and braces if needed.
7. Extra hair ties (ladies) - We can't tell you how many times we've heard on the court, 'Does anyone have a hair tie?"
8. Towel - Expect to sweat!
9. Snacks - You never know if the tournament will be offering food, so bring along little baggies of some energy boosting foods that will keep you going throughout the match (ex. bananas, nuts, energy bars, etc.)
10. Check the tournament site for time, location, and directions - If you've already checked, check again! You never know when there might be a last minute change due to weather or other match conflicts.

Not necessary but helpful to have:

1. Extra pair of shoelaces, dampeners
2. Nail filer
3. Cooler for drinks with ice
4. Icy hot for a quick muscle fix
5. Blanket or lawn chair for spectating