Once a quiet reminder of the past, the former Maple Tree Inn has become something more — a hub of movement, mentorship and meaning.

Today, it’s known as Valley Royale Tennis Club, and after five years of steady restoration and grassroots growth, it’s doing more than bringing tennis back to Carbon County — it’s building a community.

Revival rooted in purpose

The club reopened in May 2020 during the height of the COVID pandemic. While launching a business under those conditions was no small feat, it became an opportunity to rethink what a tennis facility could be — not just courts and lessons, but a place that supports people at every level.

Behind the revival was Jennifer Everett Lux, who returned to the area with a desire to create something lasting. She quickly realized this wasn’t just about bringing back a club — it was about restoring a gathering place, a learning space and a home for growth.

The restoration honored the original building’s charm: hardwood floors were uncovered and preserved, old garden benches were repurposed and stained, and rusted fences were replaced — while keeping the original posts, even if they leaned a little.

“It was never about making everything perfect,” she said. “It was about giving this place life again — and respecting where it came from.”

More than matches

Today, Valley Royale features four outdoor courts, two lounges and three Airbnb rooms available year-round. Weekly programming offers something for everyone — from cardio tennis and social round robins to junior team tennis, beginner lessons and competitive USTA league play.

Longtime Jim Thorpe coach Norb Lienhard was one of the first to join the effort. After retiring from 36 years of coaching, he made a visit to the property, introduced himself and offered to help. “I told her who I was, and I said, ‘If you’re looking for someone to help with lessons, I’m available,’ ” he recalled. “It was a blessing in disguise for me … it gave me a second chance with tennis.”

Lienhard still gives lessons several days a week. “My greatest joy is when the kids come to me and they can’t get the ball over the net, and then after a few lessons they’re hitting it clean. That’s the best part.”

He emphasizes teaching the right fundamentals, even if it takes longer. “We had a meeting one night at Jim Thorpe after a tough loss, and we decided — we’re going to teach the kids the right way. It might take more time, but it pays off.”

Over the years, additional instructors have joined — including collegiate player Gavin Labbadia, who runs middle and high school clinics and supports outreach efforts, as well as former Jim Thorpe standout and coach, Sam Lux.

“Five years ago, we were trying to create demand for tennis,” the club said. “Now we’re trying to keep up with it.”

The club has become a destination for players across the region — even drawing competitors from New York and New Jersey for its monthly UTR tournaments, which help players build verified rankings used by college coaches.

Lienhard sees the difference: “This year, the courts are being used more than they ever were. And the resurfacing? Just beautiful. To have a facility like this in our backyard — it’s unbelievable.”

The foundation

behind the mission

In 2022, Valley Royale took a major step in expanding its impact with the creation of the Valley Royale Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on delivering free and accessible tennis programming to the community.

Led by a six-member board that includes Everett Lux, Suzie Cordes, Fenna Millen, Skye Hawk, Jim Petch and Alicia Dougherty, the foundation works closely with schools, families and local organizations.

Its initiatives include:

• Helping schools access USTA Net Generation kits for gym classes

• Hosting free after-school clinics and in-service training for teachers

• Bringing tennis to public events like TrailFest and the Carbon County Fair

• Partnering with Girl Scout troops, PTOs, and youth groups

The foundation also awards a $1,000 annual scholarship to a graduating senior from Lehighton. The 2023 recipient was Edie Cordes, while Avery Hosler received the scholarship in 2024 and Julian May was selected this year.

“Every Wednesday this summer, kids can come for three hours of tennis with two coaches for just $40,” Lienhard said. “That’s the kind of opportunity we didn’t have years ago. It’s what will elevate tennis in our area.”

A new standard of play

Just a few years in, Valley Royale has helped at least five athletes move on to play college tennis — including recent graduates heading to programs such as King’s College, Misericordia, Marywood and West Chester.

Two of the club’s most dedicated players, Bayto and Bekim Cokrlija of Lehighton, helped set a new standard by placing second in their district doubles tournament and planning to continue their careers beyond high school. Bayto has also earned Times News/Lehigh Valley Health Network Male Tennis Player of the Year each of the last two seasons.

“They were on the courts almost every day,” Everett Lux noted. “They earned it — and now they’re showing other kids what’s possible.”

Through consistent programming — including USTA Junior Winter Leagues, which expanded from one team to two in just a year — the club in Mahoning Township has created a clear pathway for players who want to grow.

A place for

everyone

Beyond competition, Valley Royale emphasizes connection. The facility also hosts private events, from birthdays and showers to small weddings. A three-tiered model — blending tennis, lodging and events — has helped keep the club sustainable year-round, especially through winter.

Lienhard has seen the connections firsthand: “I’m playing with guys I used to coach — like Jared Smith, who’s now coaching at Central Catholic. We’re both in the traveling league. It’s full circle.”

This summer’s schedule includes:

• Yoga & Puppies on the Courts — July 10 from 6-8 p.m.

• Valley Royale Open — Doubles on Aug. 2, Singles on Aug. 9. A portion of the prize pool supports the foundation’s youth programs.

“Whether it’s your first lesson or your first tournament, we want you to feel like you belong here,” said Everett Lux. “We’re building something that lasts.”

Built by many

While Everett Lux helped reopen the doors, she’s quick to point to the people who have made it all possible — the instructors, volunteers, board members and families who believe in what Valley Royale represents.

“This isn’t about one person,” she emphasized. “It’s about everyone who shows up, everyone who gives back, and everyone who sees what this place can be.”

Lienhard agrees: “She’s a heck of a businesswoman. Other people might have given up — but she kept building. She kept finding ways to bring people in. I’m so glad I got involved.”

From the courts to the classrooms, Valley Royale is serving more than tennis — it’s serving opportunity, growth and a sense of community that continues to grow, one swing at a time.

After all, tennis is a lifetime sport — and it’s never too late to take your first lesson.