Platform Tennis in the Hinsdale Park District

Hinsdale has benefited from a generous donation made 15 years ago:  two platform tennis courts at Burns Field.  Over the first ten years, community interest in "paddle" blossomed. 

In 1998, the Parks & Recreation Commission grew concerned that the paddle program would be stifled as these facilities fell short of growing demand.  A plan to add two courts was discussed and recommended.  Controversy about over-crowding at Burns Field caused the plan to go "dormant".

Despite the shortage of courts, the paddle program continued to grow.  The number of players is estimated to have expanded 40 percent in the last five years. 

Participation in the Chicago Platform Tennis League has been particularly strong.  Hinsdale's representation increased from 30 to 80 people during this five year period. 

The shortage of courts in Hinsdale has created gaps in the league schedule, but so far, the other twenty-six clubs in the league have been accommodating.  The league has allowed Hinsdale to field seven men's teams and one women's team despite providing only enough court time for six teams.  This accommodation was granted with the understanding that we are working to solve the shortage of courts in Hinsdale.

In November 2001, the Comprehensive Parks Facilities Master Plan suggested a solution to the concerns about these facilities and an appropriate location. 

"The two existing platform tennis courts located in Burns Field should be relocated to KLM with the addition of two new platform tennis courts. The four new courts should be located in the southeast portion of the park.  A warming building with restrooms should be constructed adjacent to the new platform tennis courts."

In April 2002, we approached the Parks Commission in support of the plan and asked how we might help bring it to fruition.  We are returning tonight, encouraged by your interest, to offer any help that you might need.

Bill O'Brien, Charlie Usher, Paul Wiggin, Donn York, and Sally York

September 15, 2003