With the 2015 U. S. Open in the books, it is worth a look back at one of the key events in the US Open Series, the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati. If you wonder if Cincy is on par with its peer events in Indian Wells and Miami, think again. The Western & Southern Open sold out sessions as early as the second round. Cincinnati also has historical roots dating back to 1899. The first event there, played on clay, was held on what is now the Xavier University campus. Over a century later, an on-site museum pays homage to the journey.

Today, suburban Mason, Ohio hosts the hard-court event at the Lindner Family Tennis Center. Mason is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Cincinnati. Both the Cincinnati (CVG) and Dayton (DAY) airports serve the area. With summer break in session, I met fans who drove from Corpus Christi, Texas, as well as Chicago and Pittsburgh. A day at Cincinnati, feels like a visit to the state fair where friends and family gather every year.

Roger Federer once remarked that at Cincinnati he feels relaxed and at home with the open spaces and small-town environment. I met a volunteer who began working as a ball kid and is now an usher in his golden years. The fans, volunteers, and locals are committed to the tournament and display what can only be described as home town pride. The grounds are wide open but also pack in entertainment. It is clear that Cincinnati is serious about four things:  food, music, tennis, and hospitality.

Each day, musicians took the stage just outside Center Court. The diverse offerings included Rock, Blues, Jazz, American Idol contestants, and steel drum Caribbean rhythms. The food featured local staples like Skyline Chili, Hot Head Burritos, and Graeter’s ice cream. Since the event does not allow outside food, this is good news for foodies. Prices were moderate and beverages flowed at the Mondovi Wine Garden, Michelob Legends Bar, and el Arco Tequila Bar.

Everywhere you go, people are welcoming and eager to tell their story of how long they have been coming to Cincinnati and the memories made over the years. My favorite was from a volunteer who shared that she once had the thrill of carrying Federer’s bag.

Cincinnati has 13 practice courts with great views. Practice times are published online and displayed on the marquee sign near the player entrance to the stadium. The premier court is No. 15 just behind the Grandstand. Top players headline here including Novak Djokovic, Federer, Simona Halep, Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal, and Serena Williams. Another player sighting opportunity is at the back side of the stadium. Players arrive and depart from this spot, which is like a red carpet runway. Autograph seekers assemble here with their iPhones in the air. The Champions Balcony where players pose with their trophy is also located above this walkway.

The fan experience is as good as the volunteers, since fans will interact more with volunteers than tournament staff. The Cincinnati volunteer family is over 1,400  strong. Their overwhelming sentiment is pride in being part of the team and a feeling that each year is a family reunion. The volunteers come together every year, giving their energy and to share their passion and pride. They love what they do, and it shows. If you have interest in joining this team, check the tournament website in the spring of 2016.

Cincinnati is a family-friendly summer destination. Kings Island Amusement & Water Park and the Great Wolf Lodge are tournament neighbors. Supporting the event is also a force for good. The Western & Southern Open has now raised over $9 million supporting a variety of charities, including the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, the Barrett Cancer Center, and Tennis for City Youth. I spoke with nine-year veteran volunteer Barb Sefora, who stated the charitable component is a core reason why she is motivated to give her time to the tournament.

This year, nature was kind in bringing unseasonably cool and dry weather. However, keep in mind that humidity and temperatures above 90 degrees are typical. The evening cools off but is rarely cold. Plan for success by bringing hats, a light jacket, sun screen, and lots of water. You can always go to your car to get what you need because re-entry is allowed.

Cincy set attendance records almost daily, so buy tickets early. In August, the tournament received a monumental endorsement from 199,217  fans. Cincy is clearly doing something right.

Karen Helf is a Freelance Writer and Tennis addict. She is also the founder of the Tennis Volunteer Network (TVN) on Facebook. https://www. facebook.com/groups/TennisVol/