As the summer begins to wind down, the Waverly Community House will prepare for its annual community event– Cocktails for the Courts. This fundraiser, held on the back lawn of the Comm, has been in place since 2009 and continues to attract more visitors with every passing year. The gathering initially began in order to facilitate the raising of funds for tennis court maintenance; however, after a few short years, the mission of Cocktails for the Courts expanded to include the funding of all of the Waverly Community House’s beloved programs and activities. Although this latest development has transpired, the Comm Tennis Courts do remain at the forefront of the event’s focus, and have always been a very important part of the Comm’s history.

Ever since the Waverly Community House opened in 1920, the tennis courts have remained  a gathering space for community members. Every passing summer was filled with tennis tournaments and exhibitions meant to keep visitors active and entertained during the warm, long days. These early matches continued every year and eventually grew to become much anticipated events that promoted healthy rivalry and fun spirited competition among friends and neighbors in the Abington area. Over the years, categories of play have included: doubles, singles, juniors, and mixed events; at one time there were even parent/child tournaments at the Comm. Men, women, teens, and children were all encouraged to play and the courts soon became a beloved space for those of all ages. The Tennis Courts at the Waverly Community House became so popular that summer holidays were often marked by corresponding tennis tournaments such as: the Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day Championships. More recent events, such as the Bengt T. Nelson Junior Tennis Team Classic have also been orchestrated by the Comm in collaboration with organizations such as Birchwood Tennis and Fitness and the Scranton Tennis Club. This tournament was held in honor of local resident and tennis player Bengt T. Nelson and brought participants together to remember his love of tennis and his love of the Comm. All in all, the Waverly Community House Tennis Courts have served to bring community members together for decades through camaraderie, friendly competition, and community spirit– all of which encompass the Comm’s dedication to all who enter its doors.

This year’s Cocktails for the Courts will take place this Friday, August 19th from 6-8 PM on the Comm’s back lawn; it will include live music, hors d’oeuvres, and cocktails. More information can be found on our website and Facebook page. Come and support a great cause!