The renovated tennis courts at the “Bonsist” Sports Complex of the University of Forestry were officially inaugurated on 26 October 2026. The ceremony marked an important milestone in the development of the University’s sports infrastructure and the provision of modern facilities for students, competitive athletes, and tennis enthusiasts.

The ceremony was opened by Presiyan Koev, who welcomed the attendees and introduced the purpose of the event. The official guests included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hristo Mihaylov, Rector of the University of Forestry; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kalin Hristov, Vice-Rector for Academic Policy, Quality Assurance, Students and Doctoral Candidates; Prof. Dr. Petar Antov, Vice-Rector for Academic Policy, Quality Assurance, Students and Doctoral Candidates; Angel Stoychev, Chairperson of the National Representation of Student Councils (NRSC); Stefan Tsvetkov, Honorary President of the Bulgarian Tennis Federation; Andrey Petrov, Executive Director of the Bulgarian Football Union; Tsvetomir Vladimirov, Founder of “Barocco Sport”; and Nikolay Staykov.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hristo Mihaylov, Rector of the University of Forestry, delivered a welcoming address, highlighting the importance of investment in sports infrastructure for the development of university sport, the promotion of an active lifestyle, and the strengthening of the university community. The modernisation of the sports facilities forms part of the University’s ongoing efforts to provide improved conditions for sport and physical activity and to expand opportunities for training and competitive events.

Angel Stoykov, Chairperson of the National Representation of Student Councils, also addressed the attendees, emphasising the importance of accessible, modern sports facilities for students and the role of sport in university life.

Nikolay Staykov likewise delivered a welcoming address on the occasion of the inauguration. The event underscored the importance of cooperation between the academic community and sports organisations in advancing tennis and creating new opportunities for participation in the sport.

The renovated tennis facilities at the “Bonsist” Sports Complex feature courts with four different playing surfaces: natural clay, hard court, artificial grass, and artificial clay. This combination provides conditions for a wide range of training and competitive activities and enables the facilities to accommodate players with different needs and levels of experience.

Seven of the courts are covered—five hard courts and two artificial grass courts—allowing training sessions and sporting activities to continue throughout the winter months. The next-generation artificial clay courts are equipped with modern lighting systems, further enhancing playing conditions.

The new artificial clay surface is certified by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) in the category Artificial Clay (Class 1 – Slow). It combines the characteristics of a competition-grade playing surface with enhanced player comfort, meeting contemporary standards for the quality and functionality of sports facilities.

In addition to their sporting and technical advantages, the modernised facilities reflect a commitment to the responsible use of resources and environmental protection. The renovated courts will serve players registered with the Bulgarian Tennis Federation, as well as amateur and professional tennis players.

The inauguration of the renovated courts coincided with the opening of the ITF J30 international tennis tournament, which is being held at the “Bonsist” Sports Complex from 25 October to 1 November 2026. The tournament brings together players from more than 15 countries, reinforcing the significance of the venue as a host for international sporting events and a platform for the development of competitive tennis.

The renovation of the tennis courts represents an important step in the continued development of the University of Forestry’s sports infrastructure and the expansion of opportunities for student participation in sport. The modern facilities provide favourable conditions for greater engagement in sporting activities, the development of tennis skills, and the organisation of training programmes and competitions at both national and international levels.

The University of Forestry remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve sports facilities, promote healthy lifestyles, and strengthen the university environment as a place for education, physical development, and an active community.