It was amazing to see so many dedicated club and county volunteers from all over Dorset come together for our Volunteers’ Day! This celebration was all about recognising the crucial role volunteers play in making tennis such a thriving success in our community.
The day kicked off with a lively Q&A featuring Simon Spalter and Clive Young from the Tennis Volunteers Community, Sharon Heeley, LTA Regional Head of Delivery, and our very own Dorset Tennis volunteers.
2024 LTA County Tennis Awards were presented by Dorset Tennis President John Feaver and Chair Richard Henshaw. A huge congratulations to all the winners! Special shoutout to:
- Kevin Croydon was awarded the prestigious LTA Meritorious Service Award for his outstanding to tennis over a period of 40 years. As well as volunteering in several tennis clubs, it was his tremendous service to the county where he made his greatest contribution from which he retired as County Treasurer at the AGM in November 2023.
- Norman Shelley, winner of the President’s Award for his incredible contribution and loyalty to Victoria Avenue Lawn Tennis Club for over 60 years. At 96, Norman is still playing tennis and is a real inspiration.
- Clive Richardson, winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional contribution to East Dorset LTCC for over 30 years. Clive continues to volunteer at the club and is a current member of their Executive Committee. He was rewarded for his dedication by being elected President. Clive regularly plays tennis and represents the county playing in the O80s men’s county team.
After a rainy start, the sun came out just in time for a brilliant doubles tennis clinic by ATP Tour Coach James Davidson who had recently returned from the US Open where he was Coach to 3 players, and some fun padel sessions, giving many their first taste of this fast-growing sport!
A massive thank you to Simon Spalter, Clive Young, Sharon Heeley and James Davidson who were so supportive and made such an important contribution to the success of the day and to East Dorset LTCC for hosting, fantastic hospitality and of course, to everyone who attended.
