With its existing 24 hard-surfaced courts at the Palmetto Tennis Center, the City of Sumter had a positive reputation in the tennis-playing world, but it did not offer clay tennis courts. These surfaces, which are vital for professional, collegiate and elite junior play, are rarely found in the United States, and are unheard of in cities of Sumter’s size. Through careful research, including evaluation of European clay facilities as well as maintenance practices and tournament operation, the city developed and opened the Philip L. Edwards Tennis Complex in 2024. It features eight authentic, tournament-grade German clay courts built to the international standards usually found only at elite private clubs or professional venues.   

The $4 million public/private project received funding from the Williams Brice Edwards Trust, while the city obtained state grants for infrastructure. In 2025, Sumter hosted the International Tennis Federation Women’s World Tennis Tour W15 championships, bringing players from around the world to Sumter. It and two other tournaments — the Iris Junior Championships and the U.S. Tennis Association state league championship — generated about $530,000 in total economic impact over five months, as visitors contributed to Sumter’s hospitality industry. The city plans to further solidify its status as a major destination with more high-profile tennis events.  

Contact Shelley Hartley at skile@sumtersc.gov or 803.795.2463.