Nalette Tucker, a sports coach and founder of Sunnah Sports Academy Trust, has been awarded the prestigious ‘Outstanding Contribution to Tennis’ Award sponsored by the LTA Tennis Foundation at the Sporting Equals Awards. The award recognizes individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to bringing tennis to under-represented communities and improving lives through the sport.
Nalette Tucker, based in Yorkshire, has been instrumental in growing grassroots sports through her charity, the Sunnah Sports Academy Trust. Since its establishment in 2014, the trust has provided tennis coaching and other sports lessons to communities in Bradford. Nalette has also collaborated with the LTA SERVES program to deliver tennis sessions in faith-based schools, churches, and mosques.
Kiran Matharu, LTA Community Tennis Manager, who has worked closely with Nalette for over five years, expressed her pride and pleasure in Nalette’s achievement. She commended Nalette for her dedication to breaking down barriers and increasing participation in tennis in underserved communities.
Upon receiving the award, Nalette expressed her gratitude and excitement, acknowledging the tough competition she faced. She emphasized her commitment to offering tennis opportunities to as many people as possible, particularly in her hometown of Bradford. Nalette also praised the LTA for their efforts in promoting grassroots tennis and providing opportunities for young people.
Tim Lawler, Chair of Trustees for the LTA Tennis Foundation, presented the award to Nalette and praised her outstanding contribution to the community. He also congratulated the other two nominees, Arum Akom and Carolle and Iman, for their significant impact on bringing tennis to underserved communities.
Arum Akom, an LTA Level 3 accredited Coach and Head Coach at The Butterfly Tennis Club, has been recognized for his inclusive coaching program and his efforts to promote grassroots tennis. He has also been working on establishing a tennis academy in Uganda to further develop the sport.
Carolle and Iman, based in Birmingham, have been acknowledged for their tennis program that encourages women and girls, especially those from diverse communities, to get active, have fun, and build new friendships.
The ‘Outstanding Contribution to Tennis’ Award sponsored by the LTA Tennis Foundation highlights the importance of inclusivity and the positive impact of tennis in under-represented communities. It celebrates individuals and organizations that have made a significant difference in bringing the sport to a wider audience and improving lives through tennis.