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Carlisle, James M.


(1912– 1993)

Honor Award Induction: 1966
Hall of Fame Induction: 1996


James Carlisle served as APTA Secretary from 1955-1957, and as President from 1957-1959. A winner in as many different kinds of tournaments as anyone else in the early years of the game, he won the Men’s Nationals in 1955 and 1958 with Richard K. Hebard. He also won the first and second annual National Men's 45+, in 1957 and 1958, a tournament that he is generally considered to have founded. (Fox Meadow Tennis Club).

Carlisle was not a power player but had great defensive skills and won points with precision placements. He was one of the best at getting balls off the backstop and was an expert lobber and low volleyer. His underhand serve looked easy, but was difficult to return with any pace. Some consider that one of his most highly developed skills, although not universally appreciated, was his partner selection. Selections were done early and accompanied by guilt-provoking persuasion, allowing recipients scant time to say anything other than yes.

Serving APTA as Secretary from 1955-57, and as President from 1957-59, Carlisle was known as a man who loved to sing and dance and, at his home club, Fox Meadow Tennis Club, he famously regaled Blanchard and Cogswell at a surprise party celebrating the 25th anniversary of the game with his “Hiawatha” poem. Blanchard described the event in his second book, Platform Paddle Tennis, and dubbed Jimmy the poet laureate.

Carlisle was a meticulous dresser, wearing custom tailored three-piece suits, complete with pocket handkerchief

Carlisle was one of ten past APTA Presidents that met at Fox Meadow Tennis Club on January 22, 1978 Carlisle was one of ten past APTA Presidents that met at Fox Meadow Tennis Club on January 22, 1978 Carlisle
Carlisle, 1959