Major tennis improvements coming to Washburn University

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Washburn University reports it has received a major gift to help improve its tennis program and launch a new community-focused tennis academy.

Jen LeClair with WU said in a press release on Nov. 4 that plans are in place to greatly improve campus tennis facilities such as new championship courts, improved spectator seating and lighting for evening matches. A gift from Jake and Kris Klima is helping to support this vision and establish the Washburn Tennis Academy.

LeClair said the improvements to the tennis complex are part of WU's recently approved $10 million Athletics Corridor Master Plan that is focused on enhancements along College Avenue from Durow Road to Southwest 18th Street. Enhancements include upgrades to the football locker room, a new fan-focused tailgate plaza and pedestrian upgrades.

The gift from Kris and Jake Klima, paired with other donations for the Athletic Corridor, brings the total fundraising to more than $5 million. The couple has a long-running connection with the university and is continuing to give back to WU in the present day.

“We have seen firsthand how athletics can shape confidence, build character and create community,” said Kris Klima. “Investing in this tennis complex is an investment in every student who will step on these courts with big dreams and the determination to chase them. We are proud to help open new doors of opportunity not only for student-athletes at Washburn, but for aspiring young athletes throughout the Topeka community.”

LeClair said that construction planning is underway with timelines to be announced soon as the details are finalized.

“This project enriches the experience of our student-athletes while strengthening the environment for fans and supporters,” said Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek, president, Washburn University. “We are thrilled to receive such incredible support from the Klima family, and to be able to give our tennis teams the best facilities and resources to excel on and off the court.”

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