UMD Tennis is practicing on Glensheen’s seldom-used clay tennis court, 3300 London Road, today, Wednesday, September 25 from 5-6 p.m.
This is the team’s last fall practice, and Coach Jessica Worden says Glensheen is the perfect setting to wrap up their season. “To do something that very few people will have an opportunity to do is really amazing for these players. They’ll be in such a beautiful place– overlooking Lake Superior with the ships coming in. They’ll remember this for the rest of their lives.”
The practice is senior Megan Anderson’s first visit to Glensheen. She’s excited to play on a clay court while introducing UMD Tennis to people who may not be familiar with the program. “This is one of the best things that we can do. It’s getting my teammates excited for their competitive spring season while connecting with Duluth in a new way.”
About Glensheen’s Tennis Court
Glensheen was built for the family of Chester and Clara Congdon between 1905 and 1908. Their estate includes an all natural clay tennis court in the upper corner of the property, a spot chosen because it was far from Lake Superior’s wind and crashing waves.
It’s one of only two natural red clay courts still intact in Minnesota. Maintenance involves rolling the court to keep it flat, and waiting about a week after it rains for the court to dry. But the benefit is a more forgiving surface that prevents injury.