Caerphilly Tennis Club and SENSE Cymru Serve Up Inclusive Opportunities Through Open Court Partnership
Supported through funding from the LTA Open Court Programme in partnership with Tennis Wales, the project has created a welcoming and accessible environment where people with a wide range of complex disabilities can enjoy regular tennis activity tailored to their individual needs.
The partnership brings together the expertise of SENSE Cymru, a leading organisation supporting people with complex disabilities, and the community-focused approach of Caerphilly Tennis Club. Together, they are demonstrating that tennis truly is a sport for everyone.
Regular sessions take place at the club, combining adapted tennis activities with sensory games, movement exercises and fun challenges designed to build confidence, develop skills and encourage active lifestyles. Using modified equipment such as larger rackets, softer balls and sensory resources, participants can engage in activities that suit their abilities while enjoying the excitement of being part of a tennis club environment.
The impact of the programme is already evident. Participants who may never previously have considered tennis are now actively taking part, developing new skills, forming friendships and gaining confidence through sport. The sessions provide opportunities not only for physical activity but also for social interaction, communication and personal achievement.
A spokesperson from Caerphilly Tennis Club said:
"We are incredibly proud to be working alongside SENSE Cymru to make tennis accessible for more people in our community. The support from Tennis Wales and the LTA Open Court programme has enabled us to provide meaningful opportunities for disabled participants to enjoy tennis in a way that works for them. Seeing the enjoyment, confidence and engagement from everyone involved has been truly inspiring."
The project forms part of the wider Open Court initiative, which aims to grow disability tennis across Wales and the UK by supporting venues and organisations to deliver inclusive opportunities for people of all ages and abilities.
If your club would like FREE adaptive equipment to make your sessions fully accessible to all you can request adaptive kit via this link - Open Court Adaptive Equipment Bag Form
Through partnerships like this, Caerphilly Tennis Club is helping to ensure that tennis is a sport where everyone, regardless of ability, can feel welcome, valued and included.