Shawnee Public Schools celebrated the ribbon-cutting for the new Paul Duffield Tennis Complex at Shawnee High School, marking a major milestone in the district’s continued progress following the devastating tornado of April 19, 2023. That storm caused widespread damage across the district and community, including the complete loss of the tennis program’s portable locker rooms.
In April 2024, the citizens of Shawnee overwhelmingly passed a bond focused not only on rebuilding, but on moving Shawnee Public Schools forward.
Just two years later, that vision is now a reality.
“This facility represents so much more than tennis,” said Athletic Director Dax Leone. “It’s a testament to the strength of our community and their belief in our students. After the challenges we faced in 2023, the support shown through the bond and throughout this rebuilding process has been incredible. We are grateful to the community, and we’re proud to continue moving Shawnee Public Schools forward together.”
The Paul Duffield Tennis Complex is now one of the premier tennis facilities in Class 5A, featuring newly resurfaced courts and a beautiful building designed to create an elevated experience for the students and spectators alike. The facility includes locker rooms, exterior restrooms for spectators, and a wall of windows that allows those inside to overlook the courts. A covered deck area provides an enhanced viewing space for Wolves tennis fans.
Speakers at the ribbon cutting included Leone, Lady Wolves Tennis Coach Dacia Jordan, former Shawnee High School player Anna Jordan, and current Wolves tennis player Bryce Comstock. Each shared their gratitude for the community’s investment and excitement for the future of the program.
Coach Dacia Jordan emphasized the responsibility that comes with this investment, sharing the team’s commitment to honoring the support of the community. She expressed confidence that the program will continue to represent Shawnee with pride.
The facility also carries deep historical significance, honoring its namesake, Paul “Duffy” Duffield. A native of Mattoon, Illinois, Duffield served as Shawnee High School’s boys tennis coach in the 1950s and later spent five years as a mentor at Oklahoma Baptist University. He was widely respected as a private coach and tennis promoter, helping develop elite talent, including four-time state champion Patsy Rippy. In 1962, Duffield received the Marlboro Award from World Tennis Magazine in recognition of his contributions to the sport. He was also inducted into the Oklahoma Tennis Association Hall of Fame. The naming of the complex stands as a tribute to his lasting impact on tennis in Shawnee and across the state.
The completion of the Paul Duffield Tennis Complex is a powerful symbol of progress, not just restoring what was lost, but building something even greater. For Shawnee Public Schools, it is an important acknowledgement of the incredible community support shown to the District.