Hundreds took full advantage of free coaching, free-play time and cardio tennis sessions during Sunday’s Open Day at Maidenhead Tennis Club. 160 pre-registered for events a...nd a further 50 came along, besides, taking the total to over 200. A visiting LTA official believed it to be a record response, to date, for the 1500 tennis clubs across Britain, taking part in the Great British Tennis Weekend.
Balls, racquets (if needed), and refreshments were laid on by the club.
All courts were in use, including mini-tennis courts (four of them, lined out, with mini nets, each occupying ¼ of a court) for the very young.
Participants ranged from families with little experience to talented, former players, returning to tennis.
All ages and abilities enjoyed getting hands-on experience, with expert guidance from coaches, in the run-up to Wimbledon, many signing up to join the club on the day. At less than £200 after discount for adults, the club’s membership subscriptions are surprisingly good value. Fitness sessions of cardio tennis were fully subscribed also.
Barbecue burgers and hot dogs, drinks from the bar and free refreshments provided relaxation between sessions while several found time for outdoor table tennis too.
The success of the event follows close on the heels of the Tennis Circus, days earlier, when former Wimbledon contender, Danny Sapsford held group coaching sessions at the club. Sapsford, who took a set off Pete Sampras before yielding victory to him, rounded off the event with an exhibition doubles match with assistant head coach, Richard Downs, and coaches, Rob and Andy Flynn.
Maidenhead Men’s and Women’s 1st teams, captained by coaches, Richard Downs and Jess Bull, have just won promotion to the British Tennis National league. The men were undefeated in this summer’s regional tournament. The club’s juniors have tasted recent success at the Miami Orange Bowl and Road to Wimbledon tournaments. Head coach, Nigel Mann recently skippered an England vets team to victory in world international competition. Under Mann’s guidance, the club offers coaching up to the LTA’s CCA Award Performance standard. Maidenhead LTC is an LTA Satellite Performance club.