Legacy, Love, and a Life in Motion: Pat Schonefeld Turns 96

The best part of my job is getting to know the incredible community of players who’ve made Advantage Tennis their home—many long before I ever stepped onto these courts. The stories I hear remind me that these spaces are more than just a place to play—they’re woven into the fabric of people’s lives.

In celebration of Pat Schonefeld’s 96th birthday, I had the privilege of sitting down with her to reflect on a life rooted in the Upper West Side, shaped by theatre, and powered by the joy of tennis. Without Pat and her late husband Gerald’s vision and influence, there would be no Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club. Their commitment helped transform a struggling neighborhood into a thriving hub for artists, performers, and everyday New Yorkers. 

Without further ado, I’ll let Pat take it from here. 

Interview with Pat Schonefeld 

I grew up on the Upper West Side and first started playing tennis on the outdoor courts at 96th Street. My father introduced me to the game, and I later played on my high school tennis team. 

My husband, Gerald Schonefeld played a major role in building Manhattan Plaza. He was instrumental in making sure it became a home for the performing arts community. He worked with the Shubert Organization, helping to clean up and revitalize the entire area. 

Because of my husband’s impact, Manhattan Plaza became a middle-income housing project in the 1970s. This project became the anchor for a neighborhood that was struggling with terrible crime. It was designed with a special focus on people in the theatrical and performing arts industries.

Because of his efforts to bring in creative artists, young talents like Alicia Keys were raised taking piano lessons right in the hallways. Over time, as more buildings rose around us, the neighborhood transformed—especially when 42nd Street improved and small theaters began to open there. 

Tennis has been a part of my life for many years. My husband and his friends would come and play on Sundays. He was a good tennis player and we loved the game. We often played together. At the time, I was working full-time and raising our young daughter while living on 59th Street, right near Broadway. 

I returned to tennis seriously in 1977. “Mister Broadway,” as they called my husband, saw the Manhattan Plaza project through to completion. 

As for why I kept playing? It was about friendships. I worked with Manhattan Plaza Tennis Pro, Marlie, and joined a small group that played on two courts. I used to play twice a week, every Monday and Wednesday. Now, I still play once a week with a wonderful group of players.

I’ve always been here—it’s been a steady part of my life. 

Tennis, for me, is about friendship, exercise, and release. Of course, it’s changed as I’ve gotten older. I was always a strong runner, never afraid of the net. People used to call me a “street fighter”—deadly at the net!