Scheme gives tennis youngsters opportunity to develop skills (From Penarth Times)

Scheme gives tennis youngsters opportunity to develop skills

NOW FIRMLY established on the Penarth sporting scene, a partnership scheme is offering hundreds of the town's youngsters the opportunity to develop their tennis skills.

Established in 1999 and involving the Vale of Glamorgan Council Sports Development Unit, Tennis Wales and local schools, the Penarth Community Tennis Partnership is providing a structured pathway of development for junior players.

The scheme is supported by local clubs and a £15,000 Lawn Tennis Association grant. The main focus of the scheme is to develop after school clubs, and this has involved training teachers, providing equipment and, ultimately, attracting more children into local clubs where they enjoy excellent coaching in a fun, safe and enjoyable atmosphere.

Seven primary schools - Albert Road, Fairfield, Victoria, Evenlode, St Joseph's and Sully - and St Cyres secondary have been involved in the scheme.

Community Tennis Partnership chairman Rachel Morgan said: "The key objective of the scheme is to ensure tennis is accessible to as many children as possible.

If youngsters wish to continue playing, then the clubs will provide opportunities at either a recreational or competitive level.

"If we spot any potential Wimbledon champions, we will link the players into the Tennis Wales Elite Performance Programme."

The scheme has expanded its range of activities this year and included an exciting indoor mini tennis coaching programme for children aged six to nine years.

Several six-week courses were run by club coaches Anna Sorkin and Rob Cunningham, with children learning the basic skills of the game and being invited to join their local club.

Anyone requiring further information about the scheme should contact Sports Development Manager Paul Nanji on (01446) 704614.