Matt Gleason and Kwong Young
DD Kullman
The Jason Morton Memorial Tournament, a USTA Level 5 prize money event, returns to the courts at IronOaks Fitness and Racquet Center Feb. 25 through March 1, bringing high-level competitive tennis and players from across the country to Sun Lakes.
Sanctioned by the USTA, the tournament features NTRP singles and doubles competition in age divisions from 18+ through seniors. Entry fee is $55, and registration closes Feb. 15. Players may register for a maximum of two divisions (one singles and one doubles, or two doubles); multiple singles divisions are not permitted.
Tournament Director Matt Gleason of USTA Southwest and IronOaks tennis professional Kwong Young reported 279 entries in 2025 and anticipate even greater participation this year.
“This tournament consistently attracts some of the strongest amateur players you’ll see all year,” said CJ Berry, president of IronOaks Tennis Club. “The level of play, intensity, and professionalism on the court make it a great experience for both competitors and spectators.”
“The Jason Morton Memorial Tournament is special because it honors a legacy that helped shape tennis at IronOaks,” Young said. “Every year, players come here not just to compete, but to be part of something meaningful.”
The annual event honors the late Jason Morton, former head pro at IronOaks and founder and designer of the original Oakwood tennis facility before it became IronOaks Tennis Club. The tennis facility was formally dedicated in Morton’s name in April of 2011, shortly before his passing.
Morton represented the United States in eight international cup competitions and earned more than 100 national gold and silver balls. He competed in 12 International Tennis Federation championships, 61 U.S. national championships, and four U.S. Professional Tennis Association championships and was inducted into numerous tennis halls of fame.
Perhaps his most widely recognized role came off the court when Morton served as the chair umpire for the historic “Battle of the Sexes” match between tennis legend Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs.
Spectators are encouraged to attend the Jason Morton Memorial Tournament, pull up a chair, and enjoy Arizona’s spring weather while watching some of the best competitive tennis of the season. To register as a player, visit usta.com.