Exciting plans for the West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills

The Forest Hills Times reminds us that the West Side Tennis Club turns 100 this year, and changes are coming. The actual club itself was established in 1892 on West Side of Manhattan. In 1913, the club bought land in Forest Hills, which is still its home. For it, they paid a $2,000 down payment and a $75,000 mortgage. You can only imagine how much that land is worth now. Anyway, they have a lot of events in store for this 100 year commemoration.

Part of that includes making some physical changes to the Club – possibly covered tennis courts, squash courts, an ice skating rink, and a fitness facility. Some of the events they are looking at include a flag ceremony (April 21, Club members only), summer tournaments, carnivals, free tennis clinics, and music festivals.

From July 4-7, expect to see a New York Open tennis tournament (hard court) – amateurs and pros alike will participate. It will be organized by local nonprofit Tennis In New York. The US Open used to be held at the West Side Tennis Club, starting in its inaugural year, 1968. It was moved in 1978 because it got “too popular” and there just wasn’t enough room to accommodate the excitement the Open generated. Pretty famous tennis players played the US Open at the West Side Tennis Club, including Billie Jean King, Arthur Ashe, and John McEnroe.

All these plans are a about face from what was being discussed just a few years ago. In October 2010, there were proposed plans to sell the stadium to Cord Meyer Development. They would then demolish it and put up condos, but the club members rejected the idea. The current Club president, Roland Meier, hopes to make the Tennis Club a vibrant place, hearkening back to its former glory. The Queens EDC also believe it would be good for business and bring more visitors to the area.

It’s all very exciting and we can’t wait to see how it all unfolds!

West Side Tennis Club Looks Back, Plans Ahead [Forest Hills Times]
Fascinating look at Forest Hills tennis, 1977 and now [QNYC]