In recent weeks, local tennis coaches and the LTA have overseen the Tony Blair School Foundation (TBSF) Year 3 events at the Northumberland Club, and they would not be able to happen without the invaluable support from Gosforth East Middle School (GEMS) young volunteers.
Stephanie Eadon, Head Coach at Boldon Lawn Tennis Club, is delivering the Premier League 4 Sport programme with the Newcastle United Foundation. Part of this involves going into school’s such as GEMS to increase student participation. This programme allows GEMS volunteers to gain an LTA recognised qualification, a Tennis Leaders Course, whilst increasing leadership opportunities and work based experience.
30 volunteers attend weekly sessions as part of the Premier League 4 Sport programme as well as completing their Tennis Leaders course, ran by Stephanie. Although many were not knowledgeable of the game of tennis, their enthusiasm, determination and commitment more than made up for this. By the end of their course they increased their basic knowledge of tennis, learnt how to deliver sessions in school as well as being able to umpire matches.
All 30 volunteers showed their commitment in 2 TBSF events held at The Northumberland Club, on Thursday 16th and 23rd March. The youngsters encouraged 24 primary school pupils to enjoy the tennis opportunities. They were brilliant being the cheerleaders as well as helping the participants in their skills and match challenges. They were also great for the organisers who led the sessions, setting up equipment ensuring the event ran with maximised efficiency.
Furthermore, their determination and lust for a positive experience rubbed off on the participants, as they all had a wonderful time at the tennis event. This was primarily down to the volunteers.
Their dedication and positive energy is well summed up by Stephanie, as she says “The commitment and energy from all of the students from Gosforth East Middle School has been fantastic throughout the PL4S programme together with the support from their P.E teacher Kevin Jordan. They have shown a passion for both playing and volunteering and I hope they continue to enjoy and play once the programme finishes in July.”
Alison Cartmell who led the events,
“We cannot thank Gosforth East Middle School and their volunteers enough. Their hard work and helpfulness was second to none and we could not run these events without them. Thank you! All of the skills they have learnt will help with their future journey’s!”