Warwickshire competition organiser Simon Haddleton reports back from a competition organisers camp that he attended at the National Tennis Centre down in Roehampton, London (he was also joined by Alanna Casey). Did he have a enjoyable and fun time? To find out read on.......
On 29th October 2010, 19 of the best and most active competition organisers were invited to attend a camp at the National Tennis Centre (NTC). An opportunity not to be missed. A chance to visit the NTC, the hub of the LTA with the best facilities in the country, and to meet other enthusiasts who all share the same passion, and potentially network for the future. The weekend was action packed, with very few occasions to catch your breath.
Friday evening commenced with a meal prepared by the caterers at the NTC, which was highly enjoyable. As soon as we had finished our meal we were split into teams, beginning with a few ‘ice breaking’ activities, which were fantastic. This was followed by a quiz with rounds such as; tennis rules, tennis trivia and general knowledge. Thankfully the camp had a 10 o’clock curfew which after a day at university and the hassle of public transport was much appreciated, especially with the unwelcome 8 o’clock breakfast.
Saturday started with leadership activities, aimed at improving communication skills and working within a team - both key elements to being a successful competition organiser. The tasks were both challenging but fun with different obstacles each time. Not being able to talk, see or even move in one of the exercises. Fortunately as we finished the outdoor element of the day, the heavens opened so we gratefully went back inside to discuss our opinions about the current competition structure. It was fascinating to hear different perspectives from coaches, referees and even players and to learn from other experiences within the group both good and bad. Unfortunately some might say, this discussion was slightly cut short due to the whispers around the camp that the Murray brothers and Laura Robson were on the indoor courts having a hit. Immediately Centre Court, as it was known was evacuated and the viewing gallery above the court was full of excited murmurs and giggles. Even though most, if not all of us could have stayed all day and watched the professionals, we had to remember what the camp was about and we grudgingly headed back to centre court where it was time to talk about potential career pathways within the tennis structure. We were made aware of different avenues within tennis, whether it be; officiating, coaching or working for the LTA. It seemed there was a job that would suit everyone. Personally I think this was the most successful and influential part of the weekend. All of us were excited at all of the options available, many of which we were not aware of beforehand. We have all seen the line judges at Wimbledon but now the news that we could be one in the future was highly exciting. A short discussion as to what path we now wanted to take, and how we were going to make sure we achieved our end goals followed. This again was highly insightful and interesting as to the different aspects that each person found interesting. For example, Alana, also from Warwickshire was enthusiastic about wheel-chair tennis, something I have never experienced. After a long day of activities, discussions, presentations and a sports science workshop which was horrendous! All three teams, and a fourth made up of the ‘x factor judges’, also known as the organisers of the weekend participated in a fun mini red doubles tournament. The standard was mostly high, with a lot of serve and volley tactics being used, however the judges left a lot to be desired and to be honest some of my mini red kids would have beaten them!!!! They were mortified.
The final day Sunday once again began with an 8 o’clock breakfast and many weary eyes were sitting round the table. After waking up a little, we headed back to centre court where firstly we had a talk from someone who attended the camp last year, who shared what she had taken from it and where she was now. It was really good to hear that she was working for the LTA as a Tennis Development Officer for Kent, and I think it was an inspiration to everyone that with a bit of hard work we could all achieve. Finally the Tennis Manager for London 2012 came and informed us of the opportunities that were available to us as young volunteers, as well as giving us an insight into the games and the tennis competition within it. Hopefully we will all be able to volunteer at the Olympics, which would be an invaluable experience.
After such a well organised and excellent weekend, I would like to thank everyone involved. Warwickshire LTA for providing me with the opportunity to go on the camp. All of the other competition organisers who made the camp friendly and enjoyable. Finally and most importantly, the x factor judges for providing an action packed, fun and informative weekend which I think was a great success and all the participants took a lot from a great weekend.
If you would like to find out more about becoming a Competition Organiser please contact the County Office.