Crawfish Classic Tennis Tournament Draws 1,000 Players to Lafayette

Annual event at Oakbourne Country Club celebrates culture and camaraderie over competition.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:33am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a tennis match, with players' forms and the court dissolving into vibrant, gestural brushstrokes.The annual Crawfish Classic tennis tournament brings a burst of color, energy, and community spirit to Lafayette, Louisiana.Lafayette Today

The Oakbourne Country Club's Crawfish Classic tennis tournament is taking over Lafayette, Louisiana, bringing together 1,000 tennis players from all over the region. The tournament, now in its latest edition, is known for its festive atmosphere and emphasis on enjoying the sport and local culture rather than just competition.

Why it matters

The Crawfish Classic is a major annual event that generates significant economic activity for the city of Lafayette, with an estimated half-million dollars in revenue. It also highlights Lafayette's vibrant tennis community and the city's reputation as a hub for sports, culture, and recreation.

The details

The tournament features matches played across 9 courts in various locations throughout Lafayette. Participants, many of whom are local moms with busy schedules, say they come as much for the celebration and camaraderie as the tennis itself. Former tournament director Paul Griffith notes that players are drawn to the event's unique blend of sport and local culture.

  • The Crawfish Classic tennis tournament takes place annually in Lafayette.
  • The 2026 edition of the tournament is currently underway.

The players

Paul Griffith

The previous director of the Crawfish Classic tennis tournament.

Ashely Horaist

A participant in the tournament, playing on a team called 'Hits and Giggles'.

Lindsey Desormeaux

A participant in the tournament, playing on a team called 'Hits and Giggles' with Ashely Horaist.

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What they’re saying

“They come to see the culture, and I think that's why they keep coming back because it's such a good time. A lot of tennis players, they don't come for the competition as much as they do for the celebration and the enjoyment of the tournament.”

— Paul Griffith, Previous Tournament Director

“Together with our team, I feel like we're all moms, and so, our lives are really busy, and to have a weekend that we can just come together and play tennis for the weekend is a lot of fun for me.”

— Ashely Horaist, Tournament Participant

“We've worked all since, what, last fall, and it's kind of a like a wrap up to the seasons, and we get to really enjoy one another.”

— Lindsey Desormeaux, Tournament Participant

The takeaway

The Crawfish Classic tennis tournament is more than just a sporting event - it's a celebration of Lafayette's vibrant tennis community, local culture, and the joy of coming together over a shared passion. The tournament's enduring popularity and economic impact underscore the city's reputation as a hub for sports, recreation, and community.