Rob Cresswell, Joy Robinson, Dave Rawlinson, Julie Saxton, Mike Robinson, Roger Alston
Yesterday we were pleased to entertain Dave Rawlinson, President of the LTA, and his wife Brenda at our hard courts in Braithwaite and the grass courts in Fitz Park. Dave and Brenda were accompanied by members of the Cumbria LTA council, Rob Cresswell, Joy Robinson, Mike Robinson and Roger Alston.
Over the last 18 months we have received significant help from Cumbria LTA to fund our junior coaching programme and the improvement works undertaken at Braithwaite. This was a good opportunity to demonstrate what we have achieved with the LTA’s support.
To show off our juniors, Gary had organised a number of them, watched by their parents and younger siblings, to play at Braithwaite. After arriving along our new path and inspecting the court surrounds Dave was keen to join in the play. Our juniors had a great time hitting with Dave (using a borrowed racket), some of our members, and our ball machine. To keep the younger siblings amused Dave also (deliberately) hit balls over the fence for them to retrieve.
Moving on to Fitz Park, the grass courts were full with members playing the usual Saturday afternoon social tennis. After various committee members explained about the club and our activities, and in particular the mammoth work put in by our members during the restoration of the grass courts following the 2015 floods, Dave again joined in the play to try out the grass. Despite their packed itinerary our visitors were very happy to extend their stay for drinks, cakes and further chat while Dave introduced members to various volleying games before they eventually had to leave.
A good time was had by all and for our club it was a massively successful afternoon showcasing our courts, facilities and membership of all ages. Many thanks to all those involved; juniors, parents, members and your committee. Particular thanks to the weather which could not have been better.
For more photos of the LTA visit go to the LTA visit section of the photo gallery