Tennis club hoping to unearth stars of future with free coaching sessions

YOUNG tennis players can receive free coaching at Warwick Boat Club, the home of Wimbledon sensation Marcus Willis.

The club are hoping to unearth some stars of the future with regular ‘try tennis’ sessions for players who would like to follow in the footsteps of Willis, who is a coach at the club.

The 25-year-old became the lowest-ranked qualifier (772nd) to win a match at a grand slam since 1998 when be beat Lithuanian Ricardas Berankis, before bowing out to seven-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer in round two.

Sessions take place every Sunday from 2pm-4pm and are open to young players of 18 and under and their families, with rackets and balls provided free of charge.

"We’re really excited about the new initiative,” said Warwick Boat Club head coach Gavin Henderson, Willis’s doubles partner.

“Warwick Boat Club has probably the most stunning setting in the Midlands, beside the River Avon in the shadow of Warwick Castle.

"We’re thrilled to be able to share our facilities for these fun sessions aimed at any young players and their families who’d like to try their hand at tennis, whatever their age and standard.

"We hope it will encourage lots more people to take up the game and make some new friends – and who knows, we may unearth some Wimbledon stars of the future.

"Our coaches and members will be there to help out and refreshments including cake, tea and soft drinks will be available.”

Willis himself will be available for some of the coaching sessions, depending on tournament commitments.

For more details, telephone Graham Kensett on 07788 750743 or e-mail graham.kensett@guidedogs.org.uk

Meanwhile, Warwick Boat Club is also running five-day junior rowing summer camps, starting 1st and 8th August.

Beginners and rowers of all abilities are welcome and the courses are aimed at giving youngsters a taste of the sport in the run-up to next month's Olympic Games.

Each camp runs for five days from 9am to 1pm, and costs £150 per person per week. All participants must be 14 years or over, at least 5’2” in height and be able to swim 50m in light clothing.

Both camps are run by three professionally-qualified coaches. For more details, e-mail rowing.summercamps@warwickboatclub.co.uk