.. as reported in

C&RB June

June 21, By Joanna DeChellis

Barnett’s tenure at BallenIsles has overseen some extraordinary capital improvements.

The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) Florida Division has awarded the distinction “Facility Manager of the Year” to Derrick Barnett, General Manager, BallenIsles Country Club, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.

Barnett’s accomplishments were recognized at the USPTA awards ceremony during the 2011 USPTA Florida Division Annual Convention at Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

“Facility Manager of the Year” is judged by the USPTA in several areas, including: Encouraging professional development of facility staff; Promotion of tennis in the facility environment; Support for USPTA education and professional development opportunities; Hiring and supporting USPTA-certified tennis professionals; Organizational affiliations and special achievements in the tennis facility industry and Contributions to the tennis community.

Barnett’s tenure at BallenIsles has overseen some extraordinary capital improvements including a $9 million East golf course redesign, a new BallenIsles Golf Academy, a $3.6 million refurbishment of BallenIsles Grand Clubhouse and a brand new $26 million Sports Complex (see “In It for the Long Run,” C&RB, June 2010). Set on 62,000 square feet on 1,300 acres, it is adjacent to a world class 22-court tennis complex complete with an exhibition tennis court and stadium seating. Earlier this year, out of nearly 200 Clubs managed worldwide by Troon Golf, BallenIsles was awarded “Facility of the Year.