ATLANTA – The BB&T Atlanta Open has announced the YMCA of Metro Atlanta as its 2013 primary charity beneficiary. The partnership is designed to support the Y’s commitment to offer opportunities for young people to engage in activities like tennis to maintain a healthy lifestyle, develop skills, build character and become a lifelong participant. The partnership will be mutually beneficial, as the YMCA of Metro Atlanta will assist the tournament in reaching youth audiences through participation in kids’ activities on site. The 2013 BB&T Atlanta Open will be played at Atlantic Station in midtown Atlanta, July 20-28.

The YMCA of Metro Atlanta will be involved in youth-focused activities throughout the tournament, including a series of youth tennis clinics to be held for Y summer campers and youth tennis players on the USTA 10 and Under Tennis courts, set up in Central Park at Atlantic Station. The Y will be transporting kids over for clinics run by USTA professionals. Also, during breaks on stadium court, PA announcements and jumbotron videos will encourage kids and adults to get out of their seats, stretch and get active.

In addition, the BB&T Atlanta Open will kick off the 2013 tournament with "Tennis Night on the Town," an exciting event benefiting youth tennis programs at Ys across Atlanta. The event is scheduled for July 20 at the Twelve Hotel Ballroom in Atlantic Station from 7-10 p.m. The special evening will feature the BB&T Atlanta Open official Player Party and Draw Ceremony; a pro exhibition for the Youth’s 10 & Under Tennis Program; a chance to meet and mingle with ATP World Tour pros; creative cuisine and signature cocktails from some of Atlanta’s top chefs; special musical entertainment; a silent auction with elite prizes and the opportunity to make a difference. Tickets are available to the public for $500 each and may be purchased at www.AtlantaYMCATennis.org.

"Atlanta has an active tennis community, and local Ys give young people the opportunity to experience the game, along with the life skills that can be learned from tennis," said Ed Munster, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. "We are thrilled to work with BB&T and other tournament sponsors and partners so even more kids and teens can discover this great game. In the past 10 years, more than 54,000 children were introduced to tennis through the Y's 10-and-under summer camp program."

"We are very excited to partner with the YMCA and support their efforts within Atlanta," said BB&T Atlanta Open Tournament Director Bob Bryant. "We are especially thrilled to introduce Atlanta’s youth to the great sport of tennis, while encouraging healthy and active lifestyles. The ‘Tennis Night on the Town’ event will also be a memorable event where fans can mingle with players while benefitting the Y’s tennis programs across the city."

The BB&T Atlanta Open is the first men’s event in the Emirates Airline US Open Series. Last July, the BB&T Atlanta Open set a new standard for tennis events during its inaugural year at Atlantic Station, which was universally praised as an outstanding site for fans, players and sponsors.

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