Tennis for Kids returns with more spaces across the country

The scheme, launched in celebration of Great Britain’s historic Davis Cup triumph in 2015, provides kids with six introductory coaching sessions, a bespoke racket, set of balls, and personalised T-shirt delivered directly to them for £25.

To mark this year’s launch, British wheelchair star Alfie Hewett, doubles ace Joss Rae, and former British No.1 Annabel Croft appeared alongside Britain’s biggest tennis balls in a bid to encourage kids to pick up a racket.

Alfie Hewett said: “It’s brilliant to have the chance to inspire more children to pick up a racket and try tennis for the first time with Tennis for Kids. I fell in love with the sport at a young age and I’m fortunate that it’s led to my career and the friendships I’ve made along the way.

“Tennis has given me so much both on and off the court, and I would encourage any child to give Tennis for Kids a go – it’s the perfect place to start.”

Tennis for Kids has already inspired over 35,000 children to try tennis for the first time, with over half of those kids continuing to play on a follow-on course.

The Lawn Tennis Association plans to grow the number of young players across the nation and meet rising demand for Tennis for Kids with some key changes, including: running Tennis for Kids courses all year round, widening the age range to 4-11 year olds, and broadening programme locations with even more accredited coaches taking part.

Joss Rae said: “My parents introduced me to tennis when I was young, and I soon became hooked. I always looked forward to my coaching sessions and seeing my friends on court.

“Now as a coach myself, I’m passionate about getting more children excited for tennis and initiatives like Tennis for Kids mean more opportunities for children across the country to try it and hopefully continue playing for the rest of their lives.”

Tennis for Kids is aimed at kids who have never played before, focusing on fun and combining basic hand eye coordination with basic tennis skills. Sessions are also designed to teach kids how to work with a partner and become part of a team, all in a relaxed environment. Parents are also encouraged to join in for the final session which has a ‘Family Time’ theme.

The six-session Tennis for Kids course is £25, available for kids aged 4-11. Kids will receive a tennis racket, ball set, and a Tennis for Kids personalised T-shirt to ensure they’re equipped for the on-court fun. Places are available all year round with dates pending on local coach course timings.

Sign-ups are now open for Tennis for Kids 2018. Click here to book a place for your child and start your family's tennis journey!