Shirley Tennis Club Community Impact Award 2024

For three years Shirley Tennis Club has been running a scholarship scheme to support the participation of children and young people of families that would otherwise be unable to afford to play tennis. The club is situated close to areas considered lower socio-economic regions. The club work with the two closest schools to offer a total of three free scholarships each year.

The scholarships offer:

* Two years of free membership

* Two years of free coaching

* A free tennis racquet

* A pair of shoes (if required)

They work with the schools to identify appropriate students. Over the past 3 years nine students have taken up a scholarship, so far only one has dropped out.  A retention rate that we consider excellent especially with the fanacial challenges facing families.

Another aspect of their community outreach is the provision of free coaching to up to five local schools each year. Through both these activities grow community interest in tennis. They are aware research shows how benefical particiaption is to children and young people in sports in terms of socialization, health, and positive self-image. The club is delighted to be able to support our community in this way.

"The scholarship programme has a very positive impact on the club. Our members are proud to be part of a club that gives back to its community. We have set up a benefactor fund that is set aside to support scholarship students with any needs that may arise (shoes if required are funded through this). Our club members have contributed to this fund knowing that they are helping children get involved in the sport that they themselves love. Our outreach coaching programme no doubt contributes to the large number of juniors who enroll each year. We are a club that lives and breathes its community"

Financially the scholarship programme is cost neutral. Their rational is that they wouldn't have subscriptions from impoverished families anyway, their coaches are able accommodate a few extra children and the rackets are purchased through sponsorship. 

Is this something your club is interested in? Learn more about this amazing community impact programme by making contact with Shirley Tennis Club President - Sean Wheeler