All schools can give children access to tennis on a playground, in a school hall or on a court and it is at school that most children have their first experience of tennis. To further provide pupils with access to coaching and other tennis support and facilities, schools can build a link with a local club, this not only benefits the pupils but also the schools, clubs and coaches involved.
Sports Action Group for Tennis in the county
To help us meet the needs of primary and secondary school pupils we are working with the Hampshire School Sports Partnership and have created a Tennis Action Group. The group is made up of the LTA, a school-teacher, a local authority representative, a school competition manager, a tennis club and a school sports co-ordinator. The group meets quarterly to put in place a structure for schools tennis.
Registration and Membership for Schools
The Tennis Foundation have a free registration package which is available to individuals within the schools sector. This free registration offers regular communication and information regarding schools tennis. The membership package contains additional benefits such as access to the Wimbledon ballot and a schools grant scheme and costs £15 per Primary School and £35 per Secondary School. More information can be found on the Schools Tennis website.
Opportunities for Coaches
Coaching in schools enables coaches to grow their business. Schools coaches also get the opportunity to inspire kids and help them with their first steps to become the champions of the future. Encouraging their club to build a link with a school can help coaches play a key role in the growth of their club’s membership and give them more influence in the running of their club.
School Club Links in Action in Hampshire
Totton & Eling Tennis Centre are located within the New Forest. The club proactively deliver tennis to thousands of school children each year and host festivals and competitions free of charge back at the club.
Get Involved: Local Contacts
If your club, coach or school would like more information on school club links, then please contact Simon Johnson, Tennis Development Manager to discuss the opportunities available.
Simon Johnson
E: Simon.Johnson@LTA.org.uk
T: 02380 738 550