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Tennis star Jensen coming to Fort Dodge

Fort Dodge tennis aficionados will get a chance to rub elbows with one of the sport’s greats on Thursday.

Former tennis pro and current ESPN tennis analyst Luke Jensen is visiting Fort Dodge this week. Jensen will talk to local and area youngsters from 4-6 p.m. during “A Day of Tennis with Luke Jensen” at the Fort Dodge Tennis Club. The event is free of charge for juniors.

Jensen will then speak to and instruct adults from 7-9 p.m. at $125 per person.

The Fort Dodge Tennis Club, in association with Jensen Brothers Entertainment, is hosting the event.

“He loves to teach children and grow the game,” said Fort Dodge Tennis Club manager Carolyn Brandt. “He has a lot of drills that he will teach to the young players.

“He’ll also teach how to improve your game and different strategies.”

Jensen, who won the 1993 French Open Doubles title with his brother Murphy, brings over 30 years of knowledge and skills to local athletes. He attended Southern Cal from 1986 to 1987 and earned singles All-American honors both years and doubles in 1987.

After his stint with the Trojans, he turned pro in 1987 and began working for ESPN in 1994.

In his professional career, Jensen won 10 doubles titles and had 14 doubles runner ups.

As a pro, he garnered the nickname “Dual Hand Luke” for his ambidextrous ability to serve at 130 miles per hour with either hand.

Jensen reached his career-high doubles ranking of World No. 6 in 1993.

“We are excited about having a player of his caliber come to Fort Dodge,” Brandt said. “There aren’t many indoor tennis clubs in Iowa, so it will be nice for him to be able to come to the midwest in the winter time.”

The student portion of the program is full, but Brandt encourages anyone who is interested to sign up and get on the waiting list. Adult sessions are still available.

Brandt hopes Jensen will be able to spark an interest in youngsters to pick up a racket and find a passion for the sport.

“I would encourage everyone to come out and sign up,” Brandt said. “This will be a great learning experience.”

The Fort Dodge Tennis Club also offers lessons throughout the year. Right now, tennis lessons are available for high school students and adults. Memberships to the club are also available, and tennis lessons are offered for youngsters throughout the summer via individual instruction.

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