Nowadays Hylands is based within The Albany School, boasting facilities such as 6 floodlit courts, 2 Multi use Games Areas (MUGAs) and use of an indoor sports hall; but it hasn’t always been this way. Originally Hylands was based at a park of the same name in Hornchurch, and it had limited access to toilets, with trees being the only shelter from the rain. Now at this point you might be thinking “Why on earth would anyone have played there?” and that is a very simple question to answer. It was because of the atmosphere, the buzz, that sense of belonging to a community. I have played at numerous clubs across the country and never felt that same way at any of them; I used to think it was maybe because at Hylands we didn’t have the things that some other clubs did, such as a clubhouse, floodlights, indoor facilities and so on, and therefore we made up for it elsewhere. Yet since the move to our new and improved venue that buzz, that sense of belonging is still there, but this time with a whole heap of better facilities at our disposal too! This highlighted something to me, something that as Men’s Team Coach I try to get across to the players, that being that it does not matter where we play or where we are based, because Hylands is an ethos; it has no boundaries and as players neither should we.
That’s why it was a nice and rather apt way to begin the day of our first ever Men’s league match with a short visit to our old home at Hylands Park. We took a photo outside the now public courts in our lovely new team kit, as a way of demonstrating that none of us had forgotten where we started out but at the same to show how far we have progressed as a result of our determination and passion to play tennis. Also we have decided between ourselves to self fund our campaign in order to make it sustainable, as well as us all not wishing to make it a financial burden on those who do not take part. The club has kindly agreed to provide the courts free of charge as and when we need them, meaning the players’ money has spread further and covered the cost of balls, travel and coaching for example. In addition to this we have been fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of some astounding generosity from an anonymous donor; who we have to thank for us looking as smart as we do in our customised team tops and windbreaker jackets. Such an unexpected gift only spurred us on even further, as we became aware that our good work on and off court was being noticed. Therefore after a fun filled car journey (singing to the radio and busting some dance moves) we were about to show Chigwell just what it means to us to represent a club such as Hylands!
Aside from those playing for the team that day we also had other club members coming along and showing their support, as well as acting as our camera crew and match reporters*! There was a real sense of pride to be a part of this in whatever way possible, with even more wanting to come along but in true Hylands spirit they were at the club ensuring the facilities were manned and open for use for others.
In order to get to this point the team as a whole were asked at the beginning of the first ever training session way back in winter of last year, what it was they expected from myself as coach, James as captain, and most importantly from each other. This was then made into the Terms of Reference for the season, and it came entirely from them. As a result of which they have been more inclined to participate, enjoy it more when they do and are able to understand without moaning as to why perhaps they may not get picked and why others have. An example being that someone could well win every match in training but if they are not humble about it amongst their peers they will not be given the opportunity to do so at other clubs. The way the team is run is always open for discussion and consultation with any member; ideas and input are welcomed and have led to such things being decided that after every match day, win or lose, we go do something all together to wind down, chill out and not get too caught up in the events that just happened. After the Chigwell game for instance we all went and had a right laugh playing crazy golf - which by the way I absolutely suck at.
Those who played, those who watched and those who didn’t get the chance to this time, all cannot wait for our next match day, especially as it’s at home! We are very much looking forward to hosting and visiting the remaining clubs on this seasons schedule and wish everyone the best of luck in all their fixtures. Regardless of how we eventually do, this maiden season for Hylands is certainly feeling like something unique and special to be a part of right from the very offset.
Luke Anthony Ellis – Hylands Men’s Team Coach
Hylands is a not for profit Community Amateur Sports Club. Its long term objectives are to increase and retain participation in tennis. For further details please visit www.hylandstennis.co.uk
Or contact the club at hylandsclub@gmail.com
*For the full match report by Michael W (age 15), accompanied with pictures, as well as other club related activities please visit our Community Page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hylandscasc