5/20/25

Next Initiative: Bring Back the Backboards

Not long ago, Newton’s parks and schools featured backboards at many courts—vital tools for players of all ages to practice, improve, and enjoy the game solo.

Local legend June Ferestien, who competed on the pro tour in the early '80s, sharpened her game daily on Newton’s public backboards. [Read her story here}.

Fast forward to today: Newton, a city of 90,000, has just one public backboard—at Newton Centre Playground (see photo).

The good news? Backboards are making a comeback.

Thanks to a recent conversation with the City of Newton Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture, we’re thrilled to share that backboards are back in the plan.

But—we need your help.

Friends of Newton Tennis must raise $15,000 per installed backboard or $30,000 for two.

Let’s rally together to restore this essential resource for our tennis community.

To donate; click here or send check to The Friends of Newton Tennis Inc.,

50 Vernale Road, Newton, MA 02461

Players Quotes:

'Such great news to hear that the city has approved the installation of the backboard, thank you so much for your effort. That’s really exciting!

I was wondering, do you already know where it will be placed? It would be absolutely wonderful if it could be near us at the Highland courts. That would be such a great spot and so convenient for the neighborhood.

Of course, I understand if the location is already set elsewhere, I’m just curious and thought I’d share how much we’d love to have it nearby!"

- Newton Highlands resident

"I wanted to ask how feasible it would be to install a tennis wall at the Newton North tennis courts. It would be a great resource for solo players, inspired by the walls I’ve seen at other courts during away matches"

- Newton North girls team player 

Why More Backboards:

A Conversation with Tennis Pro Dickie Herbst

What if one of the most powerful tools in tennis development was hiding in plain sight—and being ignored? As Newton municipal courts go through a citywide renaissance, one simple addition could transform the way we teach, play, and grow the sport in our community: the humble tennis backboard. Read more here.

What's the Rule?

The Backspin Trick Shot

Ever seen a ball bounce back over the net after landing? If it spins or gets blown back to your side, you actually win the point! Your opponent can’t hit it— game, set, surprise.

What's the Rule contributor Eric Klein is a Garden City Doubles Championship finalist, Maimonides girls coach and an agent with sponsor Engles & Volkers Real Estate. Please submit any and all rules queres to Eric at ericklein1@gmail.com 

2/26/25

Announcing 2025 Garden City Tennis Series Sponsorships

The Fifth Annual Garden City Tennis Series will take place August 15 through September 15 at Newton North High School in Newton, MA. 

The Friends of Newton Tennis (FoNT) is organizing these community events in collaboration with the City of Newton Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture, the United States Tennis Association and Hall of Fame Harvard tennis coach Dave Fish.

With more than 250 players, the series is multiple tournaments for all ages, genders and levels from novice to high performance. Collectively, it is considered one of the largest community tournament in New England

Many of last year's sponsors participated because they wanted to see an increase in foot traffic and more exposure to tennis players and fans in the greater Newton area.  A sponsorship in 2025 promises to enable eastern Massachusetts small to large companies to see similar outcomes. 

The United States Tennis Association and the City of Newton Mayor's Office are in agreement that Friends of Newton Tennis's Garden City Tennis Series is critical to growing the tennis locally:

- The USTA says: "We were happy to once again support this year’s Garden City Championships, one of the largest community-run tournaments in New England."

- Mayor Ruthanne Fuller asserts: “FoNT (tennis series organizer) is the role model for positive, hard work that makes a difference in the life of city residents. And they do this in a way that builds community.”

Sponsorship of the Garden City Tennis Series, August 15 - September 15, provides area businesses with a terrific opportunity to market to tennis players and fans.

For more information, go to www.gardencitytennisseries.com/

Strength in numbers: 

As our paid membership numbers grow, so does our voice at city hall and elsewhere within the city. You can help us be more impactful by rejoining The Friends of Newton Tennis. 
Your payment options:

1) Click here for secure and quick credit or debit payment;

2) Send a check for $75 to The Friends of Newton Tennis Inc., 50 Verndale Road, Newton, MA 02461;

3)  If you wish to go further in supporting Tennis in Newton, please feel free to make an additional donation - The Friends of Newton Tennis now accepts direct donations from Donor Advised Funds.

Want to get involved?

The Friends of Newton Tennis are always looking for individuals who want to support and grow tennis in Newton. If you are interested in helping with any of the tournaments or our other work (e.g., fundraising, membership, communications, annual court audit, advocacy for tennis and other racquet sports), please email Tom Friedman at thomasharoldf@gmail.com