History

For about 75 years, the Tisbury School was located between Church Street and Center Street, where the town tennis courts now lie. Built in 1854, it eventually consolidated the number of Tisbury schools from seven to one. In 1929, a new school was built on West William Street, and this old building, expanded several times, was finally demolished. (Credit: Chris Baer, MV Times 2011)

For many decades, clay tennis courts have resided in place of the old school. In recent need of a rebuild, the Tisbury Open Space and Recreation Committee secured funds from a Community Preservation Committee grant in 2023. This grant allowed for two brand new clay tennis courts on Church Street, accompanied by a revitalized park and parking area.

Church Street Tennis Courts Information

The Church Street Courts will be available for use daily. The annual season runs from approximately April through November (weather permitting). Hours will vary in accordance with daylight.

There is a charge for use of the courts, with funds directed toward court maintenance and care. Currently, a family membership (people living within one household) is the sole option for play. Soon, non-member players will have the ability to reserve court time online, gaining access through an electronic lock system.

Tisbury Community Summer Tennis and Pickleball Clinics

The Tisbury Open Space and Recreation Committee, in conjunction with the West Chop Club’s Director of Tennis, David McNamara, have formed a tennis outreach program in Vineyard Haven. The partnership between the Committee and the West Chop Club was formed in 2022 to provide something fun, positive, and without cost to the community.

The clinics run from late June through late August. Along with the new courts at Church Street, three new pickleball courts have been constructed at Lake Street. (See also, Lake Street Park and Landing.) If the response is as positive as it has been in previous years, it is with hope that the Tennis and Pickleball Outreach Program will continue into future summers. Coupled with the new courts, this is a great opportunity to build and foster a long-term program for the Tisbury community.

All information including court access, memberships and clinics can be found by visiting https://app.courtreserve.com/Portal/TisburyTennis