Everyone wants to play tennis when the sun is shining and Wimbledon is just around the corner … so why aren’t they? Nationally, participation in sports is declining, and tennis is not immune. But a revolutionary organisation, Local Tennis Leagues (LTL), is bucking the trend in Scotland.
On public courts all over the country adults of all standards now have the opportunity to play friendly, competitive tennis thanks to LTL’s initiative. Across Britain there are nearly 200 leagues open to men and women and last year over 8000 people took part, playing over 30,000 matches.
In Scotland there are 12 leagues. They are based in Aberdeen, Dundee, East Lothian, Edinburgh (which has 6 leagues), Falkirk & Grangemouth and Glasgow (which has two leagues).
Dundee in particular has benefitted from a recent major park court refurbishment programme and all its park courts are free. East Lothian, Falkirk & Grangemouth, Glasgow and Leith Links in Edinburgh have also all had recently renovated park courts. There are women-only leagues in Edinburgh and Glasgow, and doubles league in Edinburgh which give players another opportunity to play besides the mixed sex singles leagues.
Like the ParkRun phenomenon, Local Tennis Leagues have spearheaded a sporting renaissance in local parks. What were often ‘Cinderella courts’ – left behind and forgotten – are now thriving again.
“We always knew thousands of people wanted to play, especially when inspired by Wimbledon or the success of Andy Murray,” says Sally Kinnes, joint founder of LTL. “The problem for many was knowing where to play and finding opponents of the same standard.”
The solution grew out of the personal experience of Sally and her partner Nigel Billen.
“We set up the first league simply because we wanted to play more and improve our own game,” explains Nigel. “Choosing our own local courts on Highbury Fields in north London just made sense. We soon realised there were lots of people like us and it very quickly became a huge success.”
The formula has remained remarkably unchanged as it has been rolled out across the country. “People want a simple structure that allows them to find and play good matches,” says Sally. “Our players are carefully organised into groups of a similar level. They arrange their own matches at mutually convenient times over the eight-week period of a round and play locally on any convenient court. Matches are reported online and we keep in touch with everyone.”
In fact, the organisation prides itself on player motivation – complete three matches by the mid-point of a round and you receive a free can of tennis balls in the post.
Tennis is the third most followed sport in the UK, after football and athletics*. But, according to research, the number of adults participating in the sport has declined by over 25% in the last ten years.
So why has Local Tennis Leagues been an exception?
Research undertaken by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) highlights that the commitments of everyday life, the financial implications, and in fact just a lack of knowledge about how to find local opponents and where to play, are all potential barriers to involvement. Local Tennis Leagues breaks them down.
The LTA is now working closely with Local Tennis Leagues to ensure the lessons are learned. Last year it announced a £125 million investment in tennis facilities and much of the money is destined for public courts.
Leagues are open to adults over the age of 18, and a round – lasting eight weeks – costs £18.
Matches are competitive but fun. “It’s not just about the tennis,” adds Nigel. “The leagues help build a sense of community and put local players in touch with one another which in turn can lead to some great friendships being formed.”
Local Tennis Leagues’ mixed sex leagues also reflect the equal interest of men and women among those who follow tennis. Unlike most sports, tennis has a very even gender split. Players can join a new round in almost any place throughout the year, meaning everyone can enjoy one of the nation’s favourite sports – and not just during Wimbledon.
If anyone is wondering about giving it a go, take inspiration from Craig Norton, who plays in the Glasgow league. “I’d definitely recommend the league!” says Craig. “It’s got me back out on the court and enjoying tennis again, the levels get better as you progress through the groups and everyone is really nice. The website is simple to use and works well.”
To find out more or to join a Local Tennis League in Scotland visit www.localtennisleagues.com/
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