The Rejuvenation of Memphis Croquet

From the sandy shores of Bunbury, Western Australia, to the picturesque Cape Cod, Mass., and then onto the vibrant music city of Memphis, Tenn., the journey of croquet enthusiast Henry Smith has been one of unexpected twists and turns. Arriving in Memphis with his wife Erin and a passion for the sport but unsure of its presence in the city, Smith embarked on a quest to revive the game he loved.

Having competed in the USCA National Golf Croquet Championship, he found himself in Memphis, initially disheartened by the lack of croquet clubs and the high costs associated with private club memberships. However, a stroke of luck led him to the University Club of Memphis, where a forgotten croquet court lay dormant, repurposed for children's bouncy castles and events.

With determination and the support of the club's sports director, Amanda Wurzburg, Smith set out to breathe new life into the forgotten court. An introductory class on golf croquet drew unexpected interest, with 12 eager members turning up for the first session. Despite having only one full court, improvisation led to the creation of two half-sized courts, sparking the beginning of regular croquet sessions at the club.

Buoyed by the enthusiasm of participants and the backing of Wurzburg, the croquet program flourished. What began as a modest endeavor evolved into a thriving community, with plans to introduce association and American Six Wicket sessions on the horizon. For Smith, the journey from casual player in Australia to croquet ambassador in Memphis has been nothing short of extraordinary. Memphis croquet is experiencing a renaissance, thanks to the passion and dedication of individuals like Smith and Wurzburg and help from club members.

—Gregory Pratt