Green Mountain Open announces - a press release- on their upcoming tournament -includes a nice video
Held during the first week of November- see details
Good morning Norwich and Upper Valley readers,
I am sharing with you a press release that I received announcing the Green Mountain Open. You may ask what is this? The Green Mountain Open is a New England Paddle tennis tournament featuring platform tennis.
🎥 Watch the APTA’s “What is Platform Tennis” video and read the press release for all the pertinent details.
Here is the Press Release:
Press Release
Green Mountain Open: A New England Paddle Tradition Since 2003
Each November, as the autumn leaves give way to the first signs of winter, the Green Mountains of Vermont echo with the crisp pop of paddle balls and the energy of passionate competitors. The Green Mountain Open, held during the first week of November since 2003, has grown into one of New England’s most beloved and well-respected platform tennis events.
What is Platform Tennis?
Platform Tennis is a fast-paced, outdoor racquet sport played primarily in fall, winter, and early spring—even in freezing conditions. Unlike traditional tennis, it’s played on a smaller, elevated court surrounded by wire screens that are actually part of the game. Players can use the screens to rebound the ball, adding a strategic and dynamic twist.
The sport is typically played in doubles, using solid paddles and a spongy ball that’s specifically designed to perform in cold weather. The court measures 44 feet long by 20 feet wide—about one-third the size of a traditional tennis court—and is heated from below to melt snow and ice, making year-round play possible in northern climates.
The American Platform Tennis Association (APTA) is the sport’s national governing body. It not only promotes and supports the growth of platform tennis but also helps organize events and tournaments across the United States. One such event is the Green Mountain Open (GMO), part of a competitive season that stretches through the colder months.
Want to see the action for yourself? The APTA offers a great introductory video that highlights the sport’s energy, skill, and community.
🎥 Watch the APTA’s “What is Platform Tennis” video
Whether you’re a seasoned tennis player or just looking for a new way to stay active in the winter, platform tennis is an exciting and social sport worth exploring.
The Green Mountain Open
A Tournament with Deep Roots
The tournament was originally founded by David Halsey, the NRC President and a local enthusiast who saw an opportunity to bring the regional paddle community together. Since 2007, the event has been led by David Barlow, the tournament’s current and long-standing Tournament Director. Under Barlow’s thoughtful leadership, the Green Mountain Open has maintained its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, while also evolving into a premier event that attracts top-level talent from across the country.
I met up with David Barlow-- The Green Mountain Open tournament director for this event at the Norwich Inn for a photo or two
A photo that was taken by the fountain at the Norwich Inn
Hosted in Vermont’s Unique Paddle Paradise
The event takes place across two scenic venues — the Norwich Racquet Club and the Quechee Club — both nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Upper Valley. These locations offer a spectacular setting for players and spectators alike, combining serious competition with classic Vermont charm.
The Quechee Club, run by Mike Keenan, has played an increasingly vital role in the tournament’s success. Keenan has been a major supporter and partner in organizing the event alongside Barlow. Thanks in part to his efforts, the Quechee Club’s paddle facilities have recently drawn national attention — they’re slated to be featured in an upcoming issue of APTA Magazine as one of the best new paddle huts and courts in the country.
An Open Event with Rising Talent
While the Green Mountain Open is technically an open tournament, welcoming players of all skill levels, it has gradually developed a reputation for drawing a stronger and stronger field each year. Players travel from all across the Northeast — including New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania — to test their skills against a deep and talented roster of competitors.
With Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed events on the schedule, the tournament provides a platform for seasoned veterans, rising stars, and passionate amateurs to share the court in spirited and competitive play.
Come for the Competition, Stay for the Experience
Whether you’re competing or just curious, the Green Mountain Open is a unique opportunity to see paddle played at some of the highest levels in the region. For those unfamiliar with the sport, it’s a chance to experience firsthand how fast-paced, strategic, and exciting platform tennis can be — especially when played in Vermont’s vibrant fall-to-winter transition.
As the tournament continues to grow in size and prestige, it remains rooted in the same community spirit that inspired its creation over two decades ago. With the continued leadership of Barlow, the energy and commitment of Keenan, and the support of paddle fans across New England, the Green Mountain Open is poised to remain a standout event on the regional and National calendar.
The Norwich Racquet Club is a private club in Norwich that has 2 paddle courts and 2 clay tennis courts. Membership is open and you can find details at www.norwichracquetclub.com
