Residents demand return of clay tennis courts in Daytona Beach

Residents of Daytona Beach are raising concerns over the recent demolition of eight tennis courts, which has led to overcrowding at local volleyball courts as players seek alternatives. The issue was highlighted during a recent government meeting, where community members expressed frustration over the lack of available tennis facilities, particularly on the east side of the city.

Historically, City Island hosted clay courts that supported competitive tennis for generations. However, the current landscape is dominated by hard courts, which many players argue pose a higher risk of injury. Local athletes, including college and high school players, prefer clay courts for their lower injury rates and overall playability.

Advocates for the restoration of clay courts presented research indicating that clay courts are not only less expensive to construct but also more cost-effective in the long run. Hard courts require complete rebuilding every 10 to 15 years, while clay courts offer a more sustainable option for the community. Currently, Daytona Beach has over 35 hard courts and no public clay courts, prompting calls for a reevaluation of the city's tennis facilities to better serve the community's needs.