The LTA, in partnership with GB Tennis Girls (GBTG) and the Wimbledon Junior Tennis Initiative (WJTI) saw the 2019 ‘GB Tennis Girls Team Challenge’ launch on Sunday 13th January 2019.
David Lloyd Newcastle welcomed a total of 28 girls from nine local tennis clubs who enjoyed the Mini Tennis Red and Green Sunday social! This included players from Blaydon, Beverly Park, Bohemian’s, Corbridge, Cramlington CTP, Cullercoats, David Lloyd Newcastle, Northumberland Tennis Academy and Ponteland relished the fun, local and competitive opportunity.
The Mini Tennis Red events are aimed at 8 & Under players, and it was fantastic to see so many girls starting their competitive journeys! This is a true testament to everyone involved from venues, coaches, parents, grandparents, organisers and volunteers.
Following the Mini Red, a further 14 10 & Under players played in a doubles event where team work, spirit and fun shone through at the Newcastle venue.
The competitors were also lucky to have a number of role models including volunteer umpires, with the hopes of encouraging the young girls to also get involved in other roles once they get older. This is a key intervention to encourage girls to enjoy being around friends in a fun and relaxed environment and organiser Alison Cartmell was delighted with the first event in Newcastle:
“It is an absolute pleasure to help introduce our young players to a fun, friendly and fab event. What’s particularly great is seeing the girls coming back from previous years and continuing their journeys and building their friendships with local players!”