As the 2015 tennis season winds down, action will continue during Thanksgiving week in the coastal community of Carlsbad, California. The inaugural Carlsbad Classic kicks off with qualifying rounds on Sunday, November 22. This destination is just minutes north of downtown San Diego. The event will showcase singles and doubles action with 32 singles players in the main draw.

The player entry list as of Monday, November 2 includes American favorites Christina McHale, Lauren Davis, Nicole Gibbs, and Cici Bellis. The top seed goes to rising WTA star Elina Svitolina of the Ukraine. Svitolina has been climbing the rankings this year, coached by Iain Hughes, and won the Roland Garros girls’ title at age 15.

Svitolina is an athletic righty with a swift two-handed backhand. At the 2015 Western & Southern Open, she fought her way to the semifinals, taking out Eugenie Bouchard, Caroline Garcia, and Lucie Safarova. Her run ended only when she came up against world No. 1 Serena Williams. Currently ranked No. 20, Elina is a player to watch.

Another familiar entrant is Belgian Yanina Wickmayer. Another righty with a two-handed backhand, Yanina has previously finished in the top 30 for four consecutive years. Stay tuned as the draw fills out in the coming weeks.

While this WTA 125K series event will not feature top-10 players, it will score points for accessibility and intimate courtside views. Smaller tournaments are more laid back and open than the Premier and Grand Slam events. After touring the facility, one can see Carlsbad will make good on that promise. In addition to lively tennis, the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort features beautiful grounds, golfing, spa facilities, and spectacular views. Event preparation includes the construction of a new stadium court, demonstrating a long-term commitment by tournament organizers.

The singles champion will be awarded 160 points. Expect great competition and rising stars looking to stand out. Carlsbad local Brett Berger also has scored a wild card into the main draw, along with French Open junior champion Darya Kasatkina. Center court capacity will pale in comparison to larger events, making every match an up-close experience for guests.

The Carlsbad Classic supports worthy causes. Operation Underground Railroad (O. U. R.) is one benefactor. This organization is run by former Navy Seals and CIA operatives. The O. U. R. team is committed to raising awareness to end child slavery.  A second charitable partner is the Warrior Foundation Freedom Station. This group supports wounded and disabled military personnel as they transition to life after service. With Carlsbad surrounded by military communities, these organizations are both noble and heartfelt choices.

Carlsbad is a tennis destination the week of November 22-29. All signs indicate that the Carlsbad Classic promises to be the start of something special.