Tennis enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Philip L. Edwards Tennis Complex officially opens on Wednesday, January 8, 2024. This state-of-the-art facility, featuring authentic German red clay courts designed to meet international standards, promises to be a game-changer for players of all skill levels in the Southeastern United States.
The Philip L. Edwards Tennis Complex boasts eight meticulously crafted courts, offering players the opportunity to experience the slower pace, higher bounce, and strategic play that have made red clay the surface of choice for some of the world’s greatest champions. The facility also includes top-notch amenities such as a full-service pro shop, access to award-winning tennis pros, and state-of-the art restrooms, ensuring an unparalleled experience both on and off the court.
Affordable Access with a Charitable Twist
Court fees will be structured to accommodate our diverse community: $20 per hour per player for all Sumter residents, current Palmetto Tennis Center USTA League team members, members of the Sumter Tennis Association and military personnel, and $40 per hour for visitors outside of Sumter County. Additionally, discounted, and free play options are available through our First Serve Program, designed to ensure access for all members of the community.
Play is available for the standard fees noted above, but we’re also introducing a unique incentive with our new Serve First Foundation—a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the Palmetto Tennis Center operations and programs. Players who annually donate a tax-deductible contribution to the organization will receive exclusive discounted rates on court fees. This initiative not only makes tennis more accessible but also ensures we’re fostering the next generation of players and advocates for the sport.
The goals of the Serve First Foundation were inspired by the life of the new Tennis Complex’s namesake. Philip L Edwards was not merely a man of Sumter; he was a builder of opportunities — connecting the past, future, and the community to a shared purpose. His life, spanning 89 remarkable years, was a testament to the power of dedication, generosity, and vision. The City of Sumter is honored to help continue his legacy by devoting a portion of the funds from the foundation back into his beloved community.
Grand Opening Celebration
Join us for the grand opening event on Tuesday, January 7 at 10 AM. The day will also include:
- A ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring USTA, state and local Elected Officials, and the Edwards family.
- Our Tennis Pros will showcase the playing style of the German Clay Courts.
- Guided tours of the facility.
- Best of all, there will be no charge to play on Tuesday, January 7! We invite everyone to experience the magic of our red clay courts, with their slower pace, higher bounce, and strategic play, all completely free until 7 PM on our Grand Opening Day!
For more information or to reserve your court, please visit www.palmettotenniscenter.com or contact us at (803) 774-3969.
About the Philip L Edwards Tennis Complex
The Philip L Edwards Tennis Complex is dedicated to bringing the best of tennis to Sumter, South Carolina. With a focus on high-quality facilities, player development, and community engagement, we aim to inspire players of all ages and backgrounds to embrace the sport. Through our partnership with the Serve First Foundation, we’re committed to making tennis a force for good in our community. For more information on the Serve First Foundation, visit www.servefirstsumter.org.