Young people can play a significant role in club and school tennis and it’s important that this is recognised.

Fourteen to 18-year-olds can attend local awards courses and benefit from practical experience. They are given the opportunity to develop their skills and are recognised for their achievements and commitment. Throughout the course they’re encouraged to become further involved in tennis as a volunteer and in the future as a coach, official or volunteer.

Coaches and teachers can complete a local one-day training course. They can then deliver the structured training awards courses. The Tennis Leader Award is the first step and there is the possibility to complete additional advanced awards in specific areas of tennis. A certificate marks the official achievement of the Leader Award.

A club or school will direct leaders to leadership opportunities and possibilities to get involved working within tennis activities. This can include assisting in Ariel Mini Tennis lessons and competitions or even volunteering at national tennis promotions. Leaders keep a record of their ‘leader hours’ and get certificates of achievements as they pass set milestones.

Training and learning is ongoing with young people being continually introduced to working or volunteering in tennis. As a result of their experience leaders may choose to continue in a specific role in coaching, tennis development, officiating or volunteering. They will be offered opportunities on both a local and national level.

As well as individual certificates, leaders can be nominated for special awards both locally and nationally. Events are held for those who are making a special contribution to grassroots tennis.

Click here to download a list of Tennis Leaders Award venues in Lancashire