At the November 2011 A.G.M. of The Southampton Lawn Tennis Association (S.L.T.A.) The Chairman, Tony Thompson retired from the post, after many years of service.
Tony joined the S.L.T.A. in 1973, becoming Chairman in 1990. He took up the reins after a period of instability, during which both the chairman and secretary positions frequently changed hands.
He then guided the S.L.T.A., which oversees the smooth running of The Apsley and the Winter Leagues, to the strong position it is in today.
He had a unique style of chairmanship, in which his quiet spoken manner calmed many inevitable differences of opinions, earning him great respect from all involved in local tennis.
Tony, a no mean tennis player himself, started his career in the 1960s at the Cambrians Tennis Club, Hill Lane, Southampton, the top local club at the time. Today he can still be seen playing at the Hampshire Tennis Club and he also enjoys a couple of rounds of golf each week.
Paying tribute to Tony, incoming Chairman Ken Grainger made a presentation on behalf of S.L.T.A. for all the work he had done for the benefit of local tennis. On a personal note Ken thanked Tony for the pleasure and privilege of working with him. Tony will continue to serve as a valued committee member.
Well done Tony.