Sports clubs are backing a campaign against the introduction of water charges which could force some into closure.
They have joined churches, schools and Scout groups in Leicestershire which have condemned the proposal to impose a "rainfall tax" on community and non-profit making groups.
It is feared that water bills could increase as much as tenfold if their buildings, which are currently exempt, are made to start paying for the use of public sewers.
Severn Trent is planning to introduce the charge next year, in line with instructions from water regulator Ofwat, which have already been enforced in some areas of the country.
Tennis Leicestershire – formerly Leicestershire Lawn Tennis Association – said it could prove "catastrophic" for some clubs.
Chairman Alison Picken said: "Anything that increases charges for tennis clubs is not to be welcomed. A significant increase would be detrimental to clubs' ability to develop young players and to the provision of tennis playing facilities in the community. The effect on some could be quite catastrophic."
Scout groups in Leicestershire have estimated it would cost them a combined total of an extra £25,000 per year.
Schools and churches have said that surging water bills would leave them with major financial difficulties.
Last week the Rugby Football Union issued a joint statement with the Church of England and the Scout Association. It said: "By bringing in unaffordable charges for water drainage services, the rain tax threatens the financial future of thousands of sports clubs, churches and Scout groups which serve Britain's communities."
Environment minister Huw Irranaca-Davies has pledged to find a solution to the row by October.