Our Story | Northwood Racquet Club, Est. 1975
OUR LEGACY
For half a century, Northwood has been more than just a club - it's been a community hub for athletes, families, and fitness enthusiasts across the Lehigh Valley. Since opening our doors in 1975, we've built a legacy of passion, excellence, and inclusivity in racquet sports and beyond.
Generations of players have grown, competed, and created lasting memories here, making Northwood a landmark for both tradition and innovation. A hallmark of our history is our dedication to player development: from introducing juniors to the game to training athletes who rise to the professional level, we've specialized in creating a pathway for all ages and abilities.
Our 50-year journey continues as we carry forward this proud legacy into the future.
NORTHWOOD
50+ YEARS BUILDING CHAMPIONS
NORTHWOOD PLAYERS ALMA MATER
WHERE OUR ATHLETES CONTINUE THEIR JOURNEY
OUR HISTORY
OVER FIVE DECADES OF COMMUNITY
1970s
NORTHWOOD IS FOUNDED
Opening its doors to the local community, Northwood established itself as a premier destination for racquet sports, beginning a legacy of athletic excellence and camaraderie.
1980s
THE VALLEY'S PREMIER RACQUET CLUB
As racquet sports surged nationally through the 1980s, Northwood became the gravitational center of the Lehigh Valley game. Climate-controlled indoor capacity, a serious coaching program, and a growing membership of competitive players turned the club into the destination address for racquet sports in the region.
1990s
RACQUETBALL ARRIVES
Northwood broadened its racquet sports identity with the addition of dedicated racquetball courts, expanding the club's offering beyond tennis and deepening its role as the Lehigh Valley's complete racquets destination.
2000s
JUNIOR PROGRAMS LAUNCH
A dedicated focus on the next generation began with comprehensive youth development programs, producing top-tier collegiate athletes and instilling lifelong athletic habits.
2010s
A DECADE OF RECOGNITION
A defining decade for Northwood. The club opened its comprehensive fitness center, was named a 3x USTA Middle States Premier Provider, earned USTA / EPD Club of the Year honors 3 times, and was twice recognized by the Pennsylvania State Senate (2011 and 2018) as a historic community racquets club in the state. The summer camp grew into a Lehigh Valley institution.
2025
PADEL & PICKLEBALL ARRIVE
Northwood introduced panoramic Mejor Set glass padel courts built to Pro Padel Tour specifications, alongside premium pickleball facilities — a major investment in the next generation of racquet sports.
TODAY
THE NEXT CHAPTER
Throughout 2025 and 2026, Northwood undergoes extensive clubhouse and facility renovations as we celebrate over 50 years, ensuring our legacy as the Lehigh Valley's premier athletic community continues. The best is yet to come.
The best is yet to come.