4 min read
Kristijan Mitrovski’s journey began far from the familiar hum of tennis balls on clay courts. Coming from Macedonia, Kristijan made his way to the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) on a tennis scholarship, where he met his wife and found a new home.
He started managing the courts at Greystone Golf and Country Club in 2011 as an Assistant Pro and never looked back. Now, as the Director of Racquet Sports Kristijan leads the charge in fostering a welcoming and vibrant racquet sports community.
“It’s about creating a space where everyone feels encouraged to participate,” Kristijan says. His approach is simple yet profound: racquet sports at Greystone should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from complete beginners to seasoned players. And it shows.
Courts that Buzz with Life
The heart of Greystone’s racquet sports lies in its courts—10 clay courts, 2 hard courts, and 4 pickleball courts. Each is meticulously maintained to ensure the best possible playing conditions. On any given day, you’ll find the courts buzzing with activity. From early morning lessons to spirited doubles, there’s a rhythm about the courts that feels almost musical.
Jenny Kimel, Member since 2008, shares, “We [Kimel and her Husband Scott] play in different places–such as other clubs and resorts–and I have to say that Greystone is among the best. It's really a beautiful facility that is also approachable and homey.”
And it’s not just the courts. The tennis shop is a hub for players, offering everything from racquets and shoes to clothing and accessories. There’s a sense of camaraderie as players stop in to chat, get their racquets restrung, or pick up the latest gear.
A League of Their Own
Leagues at Greystone cater to every kind of player:
- On Mondays, the Soft Court League offers a relaxed, social atmosphere. As the players wrap up their morning matches, they gather for lunch, swapping stories and tips. It’s a routine that’s as much about community as it is about sport.
- For those who prefer a more competitive edge, there’s the Interclub League, focused solely on doubles play.
- Finally, there are the USTA leagues and tournaments, drawing in both juniors and adults who relish the thrill of more formal competition.
More Than Matches: Events and Clinics
The spirit of racquet sports at Greystone goes beyond the structured leagues. Every holiday, the courts host lively mixers open to all, where Members can come together to play, laugh, and celebrate.
- The three-day ladies’ boot camp brings players together to hone their skills and enjoy a few days dedicated entirely to tennis.
- Regular clinics for men on Mondays and Wednesdays ensure that no matter your schedule, there’s always an opportunity to improve and connect.
“We want to provide options that fit every schedule and skill level,” Kristijan explains. “It’s all about making tennis enjoyable and accessible.” This philosophy extends to private lessons and semi-private sessions, where personalized attention from Kristijan or his team of five Pros helps players refine their technique at their own pace.
Special Traditions: Battle of the Stone and Wimbledon on the Green at Greystone
Every two years, the Battle of the Stone pits two teams of Club members (Legacy and Founders) against each other, based on which section of Greystone they live in. Even Members who live outside the Gates are woven into the competition, creating a friendly rivalry while striving for victory.
Then there’s Wimbledon on the Green, which brings the elegance of Wimbledon to Alabama. Once a year our Golf Course Maintenance Team sets up grass courts on the driving range. Players don traditional all white attire and indulge in strawberries and cream, champagne, and tea sandwiches. Members can sign up to play on the Grass course all week long and then gather at the end for the big exhibition match.
Growing the Next Generation: Junior Programs
Racquet sports at Greystone aren’t just for adults. The junior programs are a testament to the Club’s commitment to nurturing young talent. The Greystone Tennis Academy provides year-round training for middle school and high school students, while the summer Tennis Camp encourages skill development for children ages 5-10.
“The junior programs at Greystone are about more than just improving skills,” says Johnnie Kay Wolf, Member of over 15 years. “They’re about building confidence, teamwork, and a love for the game.”
“Kristijan and the staff do a really great job no matter if you're at the lowest level to the very highest level,” Wolf continues. “There will be a place for your child to learn how to play the game of tennis.”
The Pickleball Boom
Pickleball has rapidly grown in popularity at Greystone, adding another dimension to the Club’s racquet sports offerings. With its first ladies’ pickleball league now playing against neighboring clubs, and courts reserved on Tuesday and Friday nights for open play, the sport is proving to be a hit across all age groups.
“Pickleball is a sport anybody can play–all ages, shapes, sizes,” says Jenny. “A bunch of couples can come out and play together because it's so easy to rotate in and out, giving everyone court time.”
A Community on the Courts
Racquet sports at Greystone are about more than hitting balls and winning points. They’re about forming connections, finding joy in movement, and being part of something bigger.
Whether you’re rallying with friends, competing in a league, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, the courts at Greystone are always alive. Want to learn more about life at Greystone? Download our Membership Guide below for additional information on amenities and Membership levels or contact us to schedule a tour.
