Four weeks ago over half of the pupils who took part in Boldon Lawn Tennis Clubs Davis Cup themed Schools Competition had not watched a tennis match let alone picked up a racquet and played the game. Yesterday saw 300 school children from Wearside and South Tyneside not only play tennis, be a ball kid, design their own spectators banners, take part in their very own Davis Cup style Tennis Competition but also watch the professionals in action in Belgium on the big screen.
Coaches from Boldon Lawn Tennis club decided as they could not get to Belgium for the Davis Cup they would bring their version of it to Boldon. The atmosphere on court in the player’s zone where pupils took part in a Cardio Tennis session and during the competition was fantastic. The spectator’s zone was where the pupils got to watch highlights of the semi-finals and Kyle Edmund live, while designing banners for their match later in the day. The morning competition saw each round being fought out very closely with each tie ending 2-1 and Team Australia from Highfield Community Primary school being crowd as the winners. The afternoon session continued as the morning session had left off with the children in high sprites and some great Tennis being played with Team France from Rickleton Primary School crowned as the winners. The children had an amazing day and left knowing just how much fun tennis can be.
Pupils from Boldon School who qualified last year as Tennis Leaders at the Tennis Education Event were on hand to support the coaches and make sure a good time was had by all. Volunteers in any event play an essential role and the girls today gained some incredible work experience during a live event.
Stephanie Eadon Head Coach at Boldon Lawn Tennis Club said ‘The atmosphere throughout the day was electric with all schools really embracing the Davis Cup theme. We made the event a team event with players, ball kids and spectators all playing an equal role, showcasing tennis is for all no matter of ability. This is something the pupils and schools will remember and hopefully we have helped inspire the next generation with the help of the Davis Cup success from Great Britain’.
With so many indoor and outdoor courts in the area, together with park tennis courts tennis is now available and accessible to anyone who wants to give it a go. Tennis is also a sport that can be played by all regardless of age or ability with some as young as 3 years old having lesson, as well as a great sport for families to play together.
If you want to know more about how you or your family can get involved please contact Stephanie on 07904973212 / 0191 4157340
