Meet the team
Edd Whetton - Director and Head Coach at Syston Northfields Tennis Club
With over a decade of experience in coaching, Edd is a dedicated and passionate leader in the world of racket sports. As the Director of Rise Up Racket Sports, he has been instrumental in growing and developing club programs that foster skill, inclusion, and a love of the game. Since 2013, Edd has specialised in coaching players of all ages and abilities, from toddlers as young as 2 years old to elite County and Regional-level athletes, as well as International wheelchair players and adults with learning disabilities.
Edd's coaching philosophy emphasizes accessibility, empowerment, and holistic player development, striving to create environments where every individual can thrive regardless of their background or ability. In recognition of his impact and excellence in coaching, Edd was named runner-up in the LTA National Coach of the Year Award in 2022, after winning both the County and Regional stages.
With a career built on nurturing talent and expanding opportunities in racket sports, Edd continues to inspire athletes and fellow coaches alike, helping the next generation of players achieve their potential both on and off the court.
Betsy Williams – Level 3 LTA Coach
Head Coach at Hinckley Town Tennis Club & Sileby Tennis Club
Club Coach at Syston Tennis Club
Betsy is a passionate and friendly tennis coach who loves helping players of all ages and abilities grow in confidence, skill, and enjoyment on court.
She recently completed her degree in Sport and Exercise Science at Nottingham Trent University, where she competed for the BUCS Ladies First Team. Betsy is a Level 2 LTA-accredited coach and will begin her Level 3 qualification in July.
With experience coaching a wide range of ages and abilities, Betsy is committed to making tennis fun, accessible, and rewarding for everyone. She thrives on creating positive learning environments, building great relationships with players, and developing engaging programmes that inspire people to keep coming back.
Betsy is excited to be building a vibrant coaching programme at the club and helping more players fall in love with the game.
If you’re interested in one-to-one coaching, small group sessions, or just want to find out what’s on, Betsy would love to hear from you.
Mytch Briars – Level 3 LTA Coach
Head Coach at Wigston Tennis Club & Kegworth Tennis Club
Club Coach at Syston Tennis Club
Mytch has been passionate about tennis from a young age, starting to play at just four years old. As a junior, he competed at a high level and continues to play competitively today, representing a Men’s First Team in a strong Leicestershire division.
Alongside his playing career, Mytch has always been committed to giving back to the sport. He began volunteering at the age of 11 and, in recognition of his dedication, was awarded the Hinckley and Bosworth Volunteer of the Year in 2019/2020.
Mytch completed his Level 1 coaching qualification in 2021 and is now a Level 2 LTA-accredited coach. He is highly motivated, enthusiastic, and determined to build a long-term career in coaching, with plans to begin his Level 3 qualification as soon as possible.
Mytch loves working with players of all ages and abilities, helping them develop confidence, skills, and a genuine love for the game.
If you’re interested in one-to-one coaching sessions with Mytch, he would be delighted to hear from you.
Cerys Pepper – Level 2 LTA Coach & Young Person Welfare Officer
Club Coach at Syston Tennis Club
Cerys has been playing tennis for over 12 years, competing at both junior and adult levels, and is passionate about continually pushing herself to improve—both as a player and as a coach.
She has been coaching for six years and gained her Level 1 coaching qualification in 2021. Cerys is now working towards her Level 2 qualification, which she hopes to complete later this year.
In 2024, Cerys took part in a national safeguarding programme, becoming one of just 25 Young Person Welfare Ambassadors (YPWAs) across the country. Through this role, she helps raise awareness of safeguarding in tennis and supports young people in sport. She was later recognised for her work and commitment by receiving the Rising Star Award at both county and regional level.
2025 marked a breakthrough year for Cerys as a player, giving her the opportunity to train and film with Harriet Dart, break into the first teams for both the ladies’ and mixed squads, and compete at Wimbledon—a lifelong dream.
Cerys brings this passion, care, and experience into every session she delivers. She is committed to helping players feel safe, supported, and confident, and loves being part of each individual’s journey both on and off the court.