Platform Tennis
Platform Tennis is a distinctive racquet sport that traces its origins back to the year 1928. It was conceived at the Fox Meadow Tennis Club in Scarsdale, New York by James Cogswell and Fessenden Blanchard. The game was originally designed to meet the constraints of space and topography on the Cogswell property, where a traditional tennis court could not be accommodated due to a steep slope and a large rock. The court dimensions were thus set at 48 feet by 20 feet, which were not suitable for volleyball or badminton, leading to a form of deck tennis as the chosen alternative.
Court and Equipment
A Platform Tennis court is notably smaller than a standard tennis court and is surrounded by a 12-foot-high fence, which is part of the play area. The game is played with solid paddles and a spongy ball, differing from tennis that uses stringed racquets and a felt-covered rubber ball. The presence of the platform underneath allows for the incorporation of heating elements, making it possible to play year-round, even in severe weather conditions. This feature, in combination with artificial lighting, extends the conditions for play to any time of the day.
Rules and Play
Platform Tennis shares similarities with tennis in its basic rules, such as the scoring system and the objective of rallying the ball over the net. However, a key difference lies in the serve: while in tennis, a service that touches the net before landing in the correct service box is considered a 'let', in platform tennis, such a serve is valid if it lands correctly, with no 'let' rule applied. The ability to play off the screens surrounding the court adds a strategic layer that is unique to the sport.
Cultural and Competitive Aspects
Platform Tennis is not only a recreational activity but also a competitive sport with a growing community. The American Platform Tennis Association, which includes notable figures such as the Uihlein family, oversees competitions and the promotion of the sport. The game has evolved with contributions from enthusiasts and influencers, including Diane Straus, a publisher and platform tennis player who was inducted into the Platform Tennis Hall of Fame.
Related Variants
The development of Platform Tennis has influenced the creation of other variants and sports. Paddle Tennis, branded as POP Tennis, and Padel are two such sports that share a lineage with platform tennis, each incorporating unique elements that differentiate them from each other.
Notable Figures
Several individuals have been instrumental in popularizing platform tennis. Dick Squires, also known as 'Mr. Paddle', was a key figure in the sport, using his skills to promote it across various platforms.
See Also
Platform Tennis remains a vibrant and adaptive sport, blending the camaraderie of a club game with the competitive spirit of athletic competition. Its unique characteristics and adaptability make it a distinctive variant in the landscape of racquet sports.