NEWS

Hermitage Country Club creates momentum in Richmond with the addition of four platform courts.

The Greater Richmond Region, home to over 1.3 million people, had only three platform tennis courts until 2024. This changed when the Hermitage Country Club's Board of Directors approved the construction of a new racquets complex. Four new platform tennis courts and eight dedicated pickleball courts now complement 12 tennis courts and two championship golf courses. Hermitage Country Club more than doubled the number of paddle courts in Richmond and created excitement for a sport most of its 2,000+ members had never heard of before. 

Building Enthusiasm

Despite platform tennis being relatively new to the club membership and the region, it has received enthusiastic support. Mark Bernstine, Director of Racquet Sports, stated, “We have seen tremendous interest among tennis and non-tennis players. Our opening day event saw over 80 players eager to try platform tennis. Hermitage offers numerous opportunities for members, including beginner clinics, men's and women's leagues, and Friday Night mixers. We are excited about the potential to grow platform tennis at Hermitage and throughout the Richmond area.” Since the courts were finished near the end of the usual paddle season, the club is looking forward to a complete season of league and tournament play.

Andy Todd, a Masters 45+ National Champion from Cincinnati, moved to Richmond 20 years ago and is a Hermitage member. He believes the new courts will significantly boost the sport's popularity in the region. "I’m tremendously excited about the growth of paddle in the Richmond area," Todd said. "We have tried for years to get clubs interested in building courts, but many were unfamiliar with the sport. I am thrilled that Hermitage is leading the way by providing this new amenity and promoting the sport in central Virginia. I’ve already heard of other clubs eager to follow Hermitage's lead."

Looking Ahead

The racquets complex features an open space between the platform tennis courts and the eight pickleball courts. Currently filled with small tents and umbrella tables, this will be home to a racquets lodge in the future. Hermitage is eager to showcase the club and its new courts. Join them for Richmond’s historic Games on the James tournament in November.