Parks and clubs throughout the UK are opening their doors as part of four Great British Tennis Weekends to encourage people of all ages and abilities to try tennis for free. People inspired to get on court will be able to take part in activities, such as Cardio Tennis and Mini Tennis, receive tennis coaching or simply just turn up and play with their friends and family – all completely free.
Three young tennis volunteers from Beechwood Tennis Club - Evie Biggs, James Kelly and Hayley Webb - have just completed the ‘Tennis Futures’ programme and have each undertaken 80 hours volunteering at their club, War Memorial Park, and at local schools. The Beechwood trio, alongside ‘Tennis Future’ Ethan More, from Coventry and North Warwickshire Sports club, are keen to help others to try tennis during the Great British Tennis Weekends. Activity will take place at Coventry and North Warwickshire Club on the 17th May and at War Memorial Park on the 18th May.
The County Lawn Tennis Association ‘Tennis Futures’ programme started in December 2013 and In total there were 22 young tennis enthusiasts on the programme. All of them have the opportunity to attend tennis training courses which culminate with a coach qualification course.
“The Tennis Futures will be working alongside LTA coaches at the Great British Tennis weekend. Playing tennis is a sport for life and these young players are our coaches of the future. Their enthusiasm for the sport rubs off on all participants and they are keen to help others to enjoy the game” says Regional Tennis Participation Manager Jayne Ashton. “We hope to see large numbers attending the Great British Tennis Weekend events. We may find our stars for the future but more importantly we want to see more people of all ages enjoying the sport.”
The Great British Tennis Weekend is a great opportunity for everyone to try tennis for free. There is fun for all the family with mini tennis for the youngsters, junior tennis for the Teens and Cardio and Tennis Xpress for the adults. You don’t need to have played before to enjoy the activity and if you are a little rusty this is a great chance to get back on court.
To find an event and book a session near you visit www.greatbritishtennisweekend.com.