The Tennis Foundation today announced that War Memorial Park, one of Coventry’s leading tennis park sites, and War Memorial Park Leamington have been awarded ‘Beacon’ status in recognition of their high quality, affordable community tennis programmes.
The announcement was made as the parks were presented with their prestigious beacon plaque by the Tennis Foundation.
The parks were both selected by the Tennis Foundation for the accolade along with 39 other Beacon sites across the country. They are one of the first community sites to achieve the status, which recognises the best community-focused facilities, as part of AEGON Parks Tennis.
Sue Mappin, Executive Director of the Tennis Foundation, said: “We were delighted to recognise the excellent work the parks are already doing by awarding them ‘Beacon’ status. To grow participation we need more quality public tennis facilities like these, offering the local community a fun, affordable tennis experience all year round. The Tennis Foundation is working in partnership with the City to develop community tennis, as part of its ongoing drive to enhance tennis opportunities.
“Through AEGON Parks Tennis, we are committed to improving access to tennis around the country – whether playing for fun or competing. Tennis is a fantastic lifelong sport and I strongly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to take part. Working with local tennis providers, this will make a real contribution to building healthier and safer communities, as well as ensuring that anyone wanting to pick up a racket can do so in a quality local environment.”
To become a ‘Beacon’ site, all facilities must offer access to free tennis; plus quality, affordable coaching and regular competitions for all ages and abilities.
AEGON Parks Tennis aims to increase community access to tennis in parks and communities nationwide. Led by the Tennis Foundation and supported by the LTA, AEGON Parks Tennis is a key programme in British tennis’ drive to increase participation and grow tennis at all levels. The long-term aim is to have one beacon site acting as a centre of community tennis excellence in each of the 442 local authorities in Britain.
For Photos From War Memorial Park Please Click Here.
For Photos From Victoria Park Leamington Please Click Here.