Bronzevilles Chicago Prairie Tennis Club Celebrates Revamped Courts

The Chicago Prairie Tennis Club, the nation's oldest Black tennis club, celebrated the renovation of its courts with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, capping a successful $50,000 fundraising campaign. Club President Jimmie Johnson expressed his vision for the club's future, aiming to serve the community for another 113 years. Local officials, including state Senator Robert Peters, praised the club's historical significance and its dedication to training Black youth in tennis, hoping to cultivate future champions. The club plans to host the 80th Tri-City Tennis Tournament next year, bringing together players from Detroit and Cleveland. Donations from organizations like the U.

S. Tennis Association and Serve & Return Chicago made the renovations possible, addressing years of court disrepair. The club's historian emphasized its legacy in nurturing tennis talent, having contributed to the careers of renowned players. Johnson credited media coverage for boosting fundraising efforts, demonstrating the power of community support. The club continues to seek further investments to enhance its facilities and offerings.