​

In the spring of 1977, a tennis pro and expert wood craftsman from New Hampshire, Phil Baker, had a vision of building a tennis facility for the many retirees in Venice. After enlisting the support of 50 or more avid tennis players, Phil and Harriot Baker purchased the property at 512 N. Auburn Road in the name of Courtside Tennis Club. Their plan was to create a

not-for-profit, member owned tennis club, completely financed and managed by its members.

Phil was builder, manager, tennis pro, and maintenance man, Harriot was the office staff and their son, Peter, acted as assistant maintenance man. Although Courtside had a Board of Directors, Phil remained as pro and manager until August, 1983, when he resigned and returned to his wood crafting business.

When Phil built the club in 1977, it consisted of six har-tru courts, two hard surfaced courts, an A-frame clubhouse building and a detached tool/ maintenance house. Shortly thereafter, three additional har-tru courts were added and later a swimming pool.

Since the beginning of the club’s operation and at the present time, many of our members have given unstintingly of their talents and time voluntarily for the betterment of the club. We owe them much appreciation for their contributions. Our members have developed a love for the game and the club.

We owe much appreciation and thanks to the Baker family and to our generous members who have, over the years, helped Courtside survive and thrive. We work hard every day to help make Courtside Tennis Club- The Place for Tennis in Venice!