In early January of 2025, the highly anticipated Philip L. Edwards Tennis Complex opened at the Palmetto Tennis Center. This state-of-the-art, authentic German red clay court facility, promises to be a game-changer for players in the Southeastern United States.
The Philip L. Edwards Tennis Complex boasts eight meticulously crafted courts, offering an opportunity to experience a different style of tennis. The slower pace, higher bounce, and strategic play of our clay courts let's players have a unique experience unlike any other in the country.
Our clay court fees are structured as so:
Pay-to-play fees:
Sumter Resident $10/hr
Sumter Resident Super Senior (65+) $5/hr
Non-Resident $20/hr
Non-Resident Super Senior $10/hr
Clay Court Lesson Fees:
Sumter Resident $5/hr
Non-Resident: $10/hr
Affordable Access with a Charitable opportunity
With this new facility comes The Serve First Foundation, a donation program that works with the Sumter Legacy Foundation. Donations to The Serve First Foundation directly support sustaining youth tennis scholarships, community outreach efforts, and facility improvements. Contributors to this foundation get unique benefits to our clay court facility. Benefits include unlimited clay court access, no additional lesson fees, guest vouchers, and priority booking.
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 Philip L. Edwards. Not only 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 funds from the foundation back into his beloved community.
To become a contributor, or to renew your contribution, visit the front desk at The Palmetto Tennis Center.
For more information or to reserve your court, please visit www.palmettotenniscenter.com or contact us at (803) 774-3969.
Watch the video below to see how these world class courts are made, and how we've made them a home in Sumter, South Carolina.