As you may have heard, or more likely, seen by this point, Scituate High School’s construction of the new tennis courts is nearing completion.
The new courts were first approved back in March, when the Scituate Planning Board approved the extension of the courts to allow for a remodel, as well as adding improved spectator areas. The courts are projected to be finished in early Spring 2025, with the construction team currently waiting for the winter to pass before the surfaces are painted and nets are added. In a previous interview, SHS Athletic Director Scott Paine said he hopes to be able to use the courts for the upcoming Scituate boys and girls tennis seasons. Additionally, the support from the public, according to Paine, has been “second to none.”
Paine also said the courts were previously “condemned by the town” due to “heaving and cracks” along the concrete. Accordingly, the playing surface was “past the point of repair.” This led to issues for the tennis teams, forcing them to practice and compete at the old Lester J. Gates Intermediate School on First Parish Road instead of the SHS campus.
Construction for the courts began July 1, and Paine is excited about the school’s tennis players being able to play onsite, stating that “hopefully, it would generate more interest in the tennis program from a fan point of view,” also noting that students can “walk outside the building now and watch a match.” The new courts also mean SHS can now host tournaments and neutral matches, which would help generate revenue for the town.
Along with the courts, both tennis teams will receive ball machines and backboards for practice. Paine added that he wants both tennis teams to know that “the community supports sports at all levels here in this town, especially at the high school level.”
As for future renovations to SHS athletic facilities, Paine pointed to the potential for a new gym floor and bleachers, stating, “That’s all on the community,” adding, “we are pretty unique and fortunate to have what we have.”