The North East hosted two teacher training courses today in Sunderland and the enthusiasm was electric!
Brandon Gilhooley tutored the Tennis Foundation courses, which included a 3 hour ‘Inclusive Tennis Teacher Training Course’on the morning. This was followed by the 3 hour 'Cardio Tennis Teacher Training Course.'
There were 50 attendees who accessed the exciting opportunities and it was the first time the courses had been run across the region. The Inclusive Course was fantastic (see video from the course) and will certainly aim to continue the legacy of the London 2012 games. All attendees got a good experience of fun activities that can be used within the school environment and be adapted. Ultimately it proved that tennis really is a game that can be enjoyed by anyone and we are really excited about the prospect of getting more people involved in tennis across the North East and Cumbria.
Jo Cunliffe, the Tennis Development Manager couldn't hide her excitement,
"I was really inspired by the London 2012 games and the Tennis Foundation's 'Tennis for Disabled People Strategy' is going to build on all the fantastic work that has been going on for many years and leading up to the Paralympics. We have a great plan linking with the local County Sports Partnerships and 2013 is going to be a really exciting year to help the legacy of the games and ultimately get more people involved in tennis!"
Next stop was Cardio Tennis. Cardio Tennis is a tennis inspired workout played to up-tempo music. It does not require tennis skills, but is all about keeping your heart rate up, burning calories and having fun. Whether the ball goes in or out is irrelevant as the main purpose is to get fit and stay healthy.
Heart rates were pumping, feet were moving and music blasting at Sunderland Tennis Centre, which saw teachers put through their paces from across the North East. Tracksuit tops were thrown off after the first 5 minutes and the energy was incredible! Brandon ran the course superbly and the choice of music was ideal..bit of 80's, 90's (Take That included!!) and dance!!!! See the video here!
If you missed out on the courses please contact NEandCumbria@LTA.org.uk as the plan is to run more courses across the region and we would love to get more teachers trained!
For further information about tennis for disabled people and schools tennis please visit the Tennis Foundation website.
To find out more about Cardio Tennis please visit the LTA website.