More youngsters are playing tennis at Warwick Boat Club following the success of coach Marcus Willis, who thrilled and excited fans when he played Roger Federer on centre court at Wimbledon last year. In the days following Wimbledon 43 signed up for coaching and extra courses are planned.
It is fair to say the Willis effect took the club by surprise. Overnight success meant there was an overwhelming interest by the world's television, radio and print media in the little known professional and the Warwick club.
Gavin Henderson, tennis manager, says: “We were unprepared and struggled to cope with demands for live interviews, accommodating camera crews, and calls from reporters all over the world. It was bewildering and disruptive. We had not been trained in how to deal with it.
Such was the interest over the 10 days, the 'phone kept ringing. I had to drop everything and our volunteer tennis captain lost a week's work. However, it increased awareness of the club, its magnificent setting, and local tennis.”
The tennis club is rated by many as second to none in its setting, situated on the banks of the River Avon together with the stunning Warwick Castle as backdrop. Described as the finest club in Warwickshire, it caters for tennis for all ages. A multi-sports club, it also has rowing, squash and bowls facilities.
Membership overall continues to increase at a steady rate not least because of Warwick Boat Club successes. Outstanding junior Harry Lazell represented Great Britain; Jenny Waggot winning the gold medal at the World Tennis Championships; Arancha Jiminez winning the Warwickshire closed singles; Liz Graham represented Wales and recently Paul Martin and Hugh Jacques won the national indoor over 35 doubles.
Club open days resulted in more people attending the club but it is the youngsters who created the greatest impact, signing on for junior coaching. This is in addition to the interest from schools using the club for teaching. “Tennis is in a good place just now. Boys and girls are inspired and want to get involved with the sport following the success of Andy Murray, Johanna Konta and our own, Marcus,” Gavin added.