This article was originally published in Life is Good in Sumter 2019, a publication of The Sumter Item that is co-sponsored by the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce and the Sumter Economic Development Board. To see a digital version of the entire magazine, click on the following link: https://issuu.com/theitem/docs/lig_2019_pages_web2
Ever since Palmetto Tennis Center opened in Sumter 2004, it has held a number of high - quality events. In fact, the day Palmetto Tennis Center opened, it was to host the Carolinas-Virginia Athletic Conference – Conference Carolinas – men’s and women’s tournaments.
Since that auspicious start, the PTC has added to the level of events it has hosted. Along with other college events, it has hosted several big youth events. In 2008, it hosted a WTA event – the Palmetto Pro Open – for the first time. It has done so every year since, and the $10,000 event for young female players has become a $25,000 event.
General Manager Sam Kiser has been at Palmetto Tennis Center from the beginning, watching its growth. One of the things he’s most proud of though is the growth of the adult league offered by the facility.
“When we started with the adult league, we had 13 teams,” Kiser said. “Now we’re up to 31 teams, and there are anywhere from 12 to 15 players on each team. So, we have quite a number of people involved.”
The adult leagues are part of USTA League Tennis. It is open to men and women age 18 and up and players of all levels. Players compete against teams from other communities and facilities and vie for the chance to advance to state, sectional and national championships.
Sumter plays in a Pee Dee League against teams from towns like Florence, Manning and Hartsville.
Palmetto Tennis Center started with 14 courts but now has 24 courts available.
“This facility was well-designed,” Kiser said. “Also, all of the city helps maintain it and keep it clean. It’s been kept to high standards.”
Palmetto Tennis Center is one of several recreational facilities available for local residents as well as having the ability to host tournaments.
While Patriot Park SportPlex is the newest venue to be able to host to baseball, softball and soccer events, Bobby Richardson Sports Complex, located next door to PTC, is a top - notch facility for baseball and soccer.
Also, Dillon Park is available for baseball, softball, soccer and football.
Riley Park is the baseball home for the Sumter American Legion P-15’s, the University of South Carolina Sumter and Morris College.