SALTFORD Tennis Club are delighted to hear that their club coach, Andy Gray, has been voted Avon LTA tennis coach of the year against strong competition.
The LTA awards, which are in their 10th year, celebrate the achievements of outstanding tennis volunteers, coaches, officials, venues and players across the county.
The club received further good news when Andy was shortlisted by the LTA National Award Committee for national tennis coach of the year.
He was due to find out if he had been successful when attending the ceremony at the National Tennis Centre at the end of the month.
Andy was appointed club coach part time in 2023. Although young, he is a skilled, enthusiastic and friendly coach who possesses great initiative and drive. Over the last two years, Andy has worked tirelessly with the club to build up a comprehensive coaching programme, and regularly coaches 120 players across 15 groups (ranging from four to 80 years).
His sessions include private coaching, rusty rackets, cardio, walking tennis, tennis for people with Parkinson’s, and inclusive tennis.
Although Andy has not yet produced a grand slam champion, his forte is his ability to recognise and execute opportunities to make tennis accessible to all, which the club is extremely proud of.
His latest initiative is to introduce a toddler session on Friday mornings, and the club was due to hold a free taster session on May 2.
Andy has been instrumental in making the club a sociable, community-based club where people feel safe, welcome and happy.
Jonny Fenner, development manager for Access Sport, said: “Andy’s award is truly well-deserved. He has wholeheartedly embraced inclusive tennis coaching, showing a genuine passion and enthusiasm for making the sport accessible to everyone, regardless of ability”.
On Saturday May 10, Saltford LTC are taking part in the LTA Big Tennis Weekend, where people will have the opportunity to receive some free coaching from Andy.
The event is open to all ages and abilities, including rusty rackets, toddlers, juniors, adult beginners and walking tennis.
You can book onto a specific session or register your interest to the event through the club’s website. If you have any queries about tennis provided at the club, email sec.saltfordtennis@gmail.com or visit their website https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/SaltfordTennisClub
Pictured above, Andy with Saltford Tennis Club’s walking tennis group
Below, Andy receiving his award from LTA president Sandi Proctor
