Overview
Strand Tennis Center is an indoor public tennis facility in Chatham, New York, located at 40 Watchung Ave A. The courts are open to the public. Most suburban municipal courts are free or low-cost for residents, but many require a town recreation permit or resident ID — check the local parks department. There are 5 courts with a hard surface. Courts are floodlit for evening play. Strand Tennis Center is one of 3 public tennis facilities (5 tennis venues in total) in Chatham — nearby options include PingPod (53 m away) and Minisink Swim and Racquet Club (1.5 km away).
What players say Mixed reviews
Players report that Strand Tennis Center offers good coaching and a variety of junior and adult tennis programs in a small, well-equipped indoor facility. While the quality of instruction and coaches like Chris Hardiman and Coach Tai receive strong praise, several reviewers note problems with booking, customer service, and an unforgiving make-up lesson policy. Court conditions and lighting are adequate but not ideal.
The facility has five indoor hard courts that are described as small and close together, with a reasonable playing surface but poor temperature control and glare issues from outside windows. Court lighting is criticized as poor.
Booking is cumbersome and inconvenient, with an app that does not show open spots or allow sign-ups; players must call or email. Finding private lesson times outside working hours is difficult. The 24-hour cancellation and make-up policies are strict, leading to frustration and lost money for players unable to give advance notice.
Strand offers group and private lessons for adults and juniors, with generally positive feedback on coaching quality. Coaches frequently praised include Chris Hardiman, Coach Tai, Leon, and Steve. Junior players and adults benefit from dedicated instruction, though some inconsistency is noted in kids’ programs.
The center provides junior classes and camps, which receive positive comments on kids’ improvement and enjoyment. Coaches are attentive and children appreciate the additional lounge amenities like ping pong and foosball while waiting.
The crowd is described as welcoming and friendly by many, but a few serious concerns about discriminatory behavior and poor staff/customer service experience were reported. The front desk and management are noted as poorly run by multiple reviewers.
Hours & Popular Times
- Thursday · Today 7 AM–9 PM
- Friday 7 AM–9 PM
- Saturday 7 AM–9 PM
- Sunday 7 AM–9 PM
- Monday 7 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday 7 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday 7 AM–9 PM
Programs
HITT program targets middle and high school players training for varsity team and tournament play; players evaluated by senior staff for participation; includes tiered skill groups based on UTR scores.
Offers multiple junior programs including indoor summer camps for ages 4-12 and 13-18, weekend clinics for ages 4-15, and HITT training for middle and high school players with tiered UTR skill groups; focus on stroke technique, fitness, stamina, and competitive play; camps run during summer with private lesson add-ons.
Group lessons include HITT training tiers held multiple days weekly with 90-120 minute sessions focused on high intensity drills and stroke development; junior clinics scheduled on weekends with 30-60 minute durations by age level; clinics include fitness and tennis skill instruction; summer camp clinics held weekdays 1:30-4pm with private lesson add-ons.