ST. AUGUSTINE – Flagler College hosted a dedication ceremony in honor of Lewis B. Pollard for his contribution to the renovated tennis center that bears his name – the Pollard Tennis Center – on Oct. 22. The ceremony featured speeches from the President of Flagler John Delaney, Director of Athletics Jud Damon and the Vice President of Institutional Advancement Kristy Myers.

"This center supports our students, teammates, and future leaders," said Damon. "With this renovation, we've redefined what is possible for Flagler Tennis."

Attendees had the opportunity to explore the new locker rooms bearing the names of legendary Flagler tennis coaches Peter Scott and Walter Shinn, the new coaches offices, and a scrimmage amongst some of the current tennis players.  
 

"This rich history and ongoing success set the stage for our vision of the Pollard Tennis Center," said Delaney, "not simply as a facility upgrade, but as a vibrant hub  where student-athletes could push their limits, make new history, and where our entire community could come together in support of Flagler Tennis."

The tennis center has been on the Flagler campus since 1983 and was known simply as the Flagler Tennis Center. The facility has seen recent upgrades including resurfacing of the six courts and the installation of energy efficient LED lighting. The Pollard Tennis Center, along with the addition of the new locker rooms and coaches offices, will have a dedicated study area which gives the facility an overall enhanced environment that empowers student-athletes to train, learn, and excel as part of a program that ranks consistently in the top 10 in the nation.

"For me, sports have always been about more than just winning games," said Pollard. "Athletics teach important life lessons like hard work, teamwork, and never giving up. I believe these lessons help young people become strong, confident adults who can face any challenge."
 
Flagler was won seven national titles, five on the women's side and two on the men's side, all when the program competed at the NAIA level. Since moving to NCAA Division II and the Peach Belt Conference, the Saints have won seven regular season league titles, four conference tournament championships. The Flagler women have made 12 NCAA Division II National Tournament appearances and have advanced to the Round of 16 three times. The men have made nine national tournament appearances and have advanced to the Round of 16 three times.

CONNECT WITH THE SAINTS: Facebook | X | Instagram | YouTube
DOWNLOAD TEAM SCHEDULES: Download Center
FOLLOW YOUR FAVORITE SAINTS TEAM: Sign up for Newsletter