Announcement

Exploring the unique world of platform tennis

Thursday, December 26, 2024

The following appeared in the winter 2025 Ocean Pines Report quarterly newsletter: https://www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/quarterly-newsletters

Platform tennis is one of the most unique sports we offer at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center, combining the fast-paced strategy of soccer, the dynamic teamwork of basketball, and the precision of tennis. Yet, unlike any of these sports, it’s played on a raised platform with its own set of rules and equipment, making it an intriguing option for those looking to try something new.

The origins of platform tennis date back to the fall of 1928 in Scarsdale, New York, when neighbors James Cogswell and Fessenden Blanchard sought a winter-friendly outdoor sport. They built a wooden platform on a narrow strip of land for badminton, deck tennis, and volleyball. But the space’s natural constraints led to a serendipitous discovery. The platform’s limited dimensions – 48 feet long by 20 feet wide – made volleyball impractical, and the open exposure proved less than ideal for badminton. Ultimately, the pair turned to deck tennis, unknowingly setting the stage for what would later evolve into platform tennis.

Over time, their experiment gained momentum, with rule refinements and new equipment tailored to the sport. Today, platform tennis continues to grow, particularly in winter climates, as it’s uniquely suited for cold-weather play.

What makes platform tennis truly special is its accessibility. Played on a court roughly one-third the size of a traditional tennis court, the sport allows for shorter bursts of speed, making it enjoyable and engaging for players of all ages and fitness levels. Here in Ocean Pines, we’ve converted former tennis courts into regulation-sized platform tennis courts, ensuring a fantastic experience for both newcomers and seasoned players.

If you’re curious about this fun and unique sport, I encourage you to contact the Ocean Pines Racquet Center. Our team is always excited to introduce new players to the world of platform tennis, and we’d love to see you on the court soon!

For more information or to schedule a visit, call the Racquet Center today at 410-641-7228. Let’s make this winter a season of discovery and play!

Announcement

Exploring the unique world of platform tennis

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