Bob Callaway Biography

February 7, 2014

Induction into the Platform Tennis Hall of Fame is the highest award that can be earned in platform tennis. It is presented to individuals who have achieved distinction in the play of platform tennis and/or who have otherwise contributed to the growth, development and administration of the game. Recipients have also demonstrated a high level of integrity, sportsmanship, and consideration for others and thus earned the respect and admiration that they deserve for their endeavors in platform tennis. Bob Callaway’s passion for the game and tireless promotion of the sport of platform tennis certainly qualifies him for this honor.

Bob began playing platform tennis in 1963 and has devoted his life to being a teaching professional for the past 35 years. He is a National Senior Champion, finalist in four National Championships, a founding member of the former American Professional Platform Tennis Association and a former officer of the USA Professional Platform Tennis Association. Bob has taught both male and female players who have won over 60 National Platform Tennis Championships.

Bob started the first commercial platform tennis facility in 1972 in Norwalk (“The Paddle Tennis Center”) which had over 400 players weekly in clinic programs. The Center was the first of its kind and became a place where top players could come and play. Bob was instrumental in establishing a paddle program at the New Canaan Field Club where he was a long time USPTA pro and he has taught both platform tennis and tennis at The Field Club of Greenwich. Bob was the Head Paddle Pro at Wee Burn Country Club in Darien from 1998-2012 until he retired. Bob has conducted clinics for the Viking Kick Off Academy, the R. J. Reilly Paddle Academy in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and has given private lessons and clinics nation-wide. In addition to his time on the court, Bob has authored the book, Platform Tennis published in 1975, and has written numerous articles for Platform Tennis Magazine.