Judy Murray has heralded the dawn of a new era for tennis in Paisley after unveiling newly refurbished courts at Brodie Park.
Judy, one of Britain’s top tennis coaches, was joined by Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) Chief Executive Roger Draper and Councillor Marie McGurk, Convener of Renfrewshire Council's Environment and Infrastructure Policy Board, in opening the LTA funded courts on Saturday.
The existing six courts have all been resurfaced at the site thanks to a £160,000 grant from the LTA and Judy Murray believes the sport can now flourish in the area.
Former Scotland national tennis coach Judy Murray said: “I'm passionate about growing the game in Scotland so it’s fantastic to see a brand new tennis facility here in Paisley.
“I’m hoping to see people of all ages and abilities using the courts and having a lot of fun playing tennis.”
Roger Draper added: “I’m delighted to be here opening the new courts. The facilities are superb and I’m looking forward to the whole community using them.
“To see people picking up a racket and playing is fantastic and one of our main aims to ensure as many people as possible can play the sport.
“These courts are a perfect example of why the LTA is investing in facilities up and down the country, in order to improve community access to tennis.”
After the unveiling of the new facilities, 130 pupils from six local schools were invited for a mix of mini tennis and coaching.
“The revamped Brodie Park is a very exciting development for tennis in Renfrewshire,” said Councillor Marie McGurk.
“We’ll be able to use the upgraded courts at Brodie Park to dramatically step up our existing work to involve youngsters in tennis.
“It’s great to see the LTA making such a substantial investment not only in tennis facilities but also in continuing support through specialist coaching.”
Mike Cohen, Tennis Scotland Development Manager for the area, said:
“Thanks to the investment by the LTA and the support from Renfrewshire Council, there is now an opportunity for the local community to enjoy free tennis at this great facility.
“It’s been really encouraging to see the whole community getting behind this project.
“Tennis Scotland is committed to making tennis more accessible to all and we hope that we can use this model in other sites in the future.”
The LTA makes financial support available through its resources and ensures investments will deliver the maximum return for British tennis through more people playing and more hours on the court across Britain. There will be an increase in the number and standard of facilities nationwide which will be available to the whole community at a reasonable, affordable cost.
To find a playing partner, a local court or coach, register at www.allplaytennis.com