Sally Goldman’s Journey in Tennis Facility Ownership

Her path to facility ownership was shaped by both her entrepreneurial upbringing and Steve’s experience as a tennis professional. Steve’s parents, successful business owners, instilled in them the importance of real estate ownership—a philosophy that would prove invaluable. Owning their facility meant long-term stability, the ability to reinvest, and control over their vision.

Their first venture was a four-court indoor tennis club in Randolph, MA. But as the industry evolved and multi-purpose facilities became the future, Sally and Steve saw an opportunity. When Weymouth Club came up for sale, they knew it was their chance to create something truly special.

Taking over Weymouth Club in 1988 was a leap of faith—one built on preparation and a willingness to learn. “We quickly realized we didn’t know what we didn’t know,” Sally recalls. They sought mentorship, adapted their business model from high court fees to a membership-based structure, and focused on long-term sustainability.

More than 30 major renovations later, Weymouth Club has continually evolved to meet members’ needs. From expanded fitness offerings to innovative children’s programs, the Goldmans have embraced change to keep their facility thriving.

Being a woman in the business hasn’t always been easy. “You have to make hard decisions and be able to say them out loud,” she explains. Early in her career, she struggled with being firm, but over time, she learned the importance of setting clear expectations and holding people accountable—whether it was staff, members, or herself. Through this growth, she also recognized the value of investing in her team. “When you have the right people in place, everything runs more smoothly,” she says, emphasizing that great employees working together toward missions and financial goals make things happen. Just like in tennis, you have to keep score.

For anyone looking to get into ownership, Sally’s advice is straightforward: know what you’re getting into. “Owning a club isn’t just about loving tennis— it’s about offering a good product and getting and keeping customers. It’s about planning and marketing and delivering. You must know your finances and make payroll all while maintaining a clean facility.”

She emphasizes the power of mentorship, networking, and continuous learning. Whether through conferences, industry publications, or connecting with other owners, building a strong support system is crucial. “You have to be assertive. Put yourself out there and ask questions.”

Sally and Steve have built more than a successful business—they’ve built a community. From summer camps introducing kids to tennis to reinvesting in their facility, their impact extends far beyond the courts of Weymouth Club.

For their tremendous impact on the New England tennis community, the Goldmans were honored as USTA New England’s 2023 Gardner Ward Chase Award recipients for lifetime achievement.   

“Tennis has given me so much,” Sally reflects. “It’s a sport that teaches you resilience, strategy, and being tough under pressure. And in business, just like in tennis, you have to constantly be thinking ahead, adjusting, and planning for the future.”

As we celebrate National Girls & Women in Sports Day and Women’s History Month, Sally’s story stands as a reminder of the power of perseverance, strategic thinking, and the importance of lifting others up along the way.