Interview: Maria Lauren Wisdom, Head of Tennis at Paddington Recreation Grounds, Maida Vale.
What was your first experience of inclusive/disability tennis?
My first experience with disability tennis was only recently this year, when I after years of thinking about it finally had the opportunity to get on a course run by the LTA at Paddington Rec. The course was brilliant and inspired me to get much more involved with inclusive tennis and try and create some sessions at Paddington Recreation grounds.
What plans do you have for inclusive/disability tennis at Paddington Rec?
This year in June I set up, with the help and funding of the Tennis Foundation, two inclusive tennis sessions. One offered to players with Learning disabilities and the second session a DSActive session offered to players with Downs Syndrome. I am happy to announce that Paddington Recreation Grounds will be hosting our first inclusive tennis festival on September 15th 9-12pm open to all players. Thereafter we will be running two inclusive 6 week courses on a Tuesday evening 5-6pm and 6-7pm.
Who are they key partners in the project?
The Key partners in this project are The Tennis Foundation, Middlesex LTA’s Inclusive tennis officer Mark Bullock and myself.
What advice would you give to clubs and coaches looking to develop their inclusive/disability offer?
This is a great way to open up your clubs tennis programme to players of all ages and abilities. It allows all of the community to get involved and be a part of your club
Anything else you would like to add?
Tennis is a beautiful sport that has the power to bring all people together regardless of age, race gender or any a disability, physical or mental. Everyone will benefit from playing tennis as it promotes healthy living and creates an amazing social atmosphere for everyone involved. I am very happy to be apart of this and I hope to keep promoting tennis for everyone and anybody who wants to play. Thank you.