- Community Programme

The Community Tennis Coaching Programme started in 2005 and a full-time Community tennis coach was appointed, funded by Sport England. 

The aim of the community programme is :

·       Enable greater participation in the sport

·       To raise the profile of tennis in schools and the community, making it accessible to children who may not normally have had the opportunity to play

In February 2007 Matt Cutler and Tom Crisp took over as Community tennis coach and Community Fitness coach and have continued the programme to date.  The programme delivers free coaching for 15 schools, which includes 2 for special educational needs.  Six-week courses are run for all year groups in the participating schools.  A large number of children who would otherwise not be introduced to tennis now have coaching during school hours and many have progressed to club squads. 

Over the 3 years that the scheme has run, over 10,000 children have participated in a 6 week block of coaching.

Matt and Tom also carry out talent identification in these schools and offer additional coaching to the most promising players. Every term the coaches arrange school tennis tournaments or festivals during curriculum time to give the schools the opportunity to visit our club and play tennis on real courts. These events are enjoyed by all pupils plus the parents who come to support them.

Unfortunately as from September 2009, the funding to continue the scheme will cease but Matt and Tom hope to continue working with some of the schools.

If you are closely involved with any school and think they will be interested in free tennis coaching please contact:

Matt Cutler, Community Tennis Coach

Mobile 07738 858 261 or email matt@surbiton.org