Wimbledon may have just finished but over 40 people with a learning disability took part in a special LTA (Lawn Tennis Association) Matchplay event at Bexleyheath Tennis club on Tuesday 16th July.
The event was organised by Bexley Sports Disability Network, and led by Bexley Mencap. There were players from a number of local disability groups such as Bexley Mencap and Reinstate as well as day centres, supported living and care homes.
Sponsored by the LTA, the event consisted of a series of tennis challenges such as serving and a mini rally points competition.
There was also a chance for players new to the game to receive special coaching and tips from members of the tennis club.
Dave Williams, chair of the club said:
‘We are proud to support the LTA’s Open Court programme to make tennis more accessible and inclusive to everyone. It’s great to see Bexley Mencap players practising every week at the club in the summer and autumn and everyone who took part was so enthusiastic. Many of the serves were definitely aces!’
‘All the players responded so well to the special tennis challenges and forehand and backhand shot exercises’ said Nick Marsden of Bexley Mencap. ‘There was a lot of healthy competition during many of the rallies. It was great to welcome back players from last month’s Sports Day, keen to practice more skills as well as new members who haven’t had the chance to play much tennis before.’
Josh Hayre, of Bexley Sports Disability Network and Reinstate said:
‘It’s the first time the Network has put on a borough wide event and partnered with local organisations and the LTA to celebrate the sporting achievements and abilities of people with a learning disability.’
Everybody who took part received LTA team challenge certificates, wristbands and medals.
