Lacey Green and Loosely Row Tennis Club, located in a small home counties village, is making waves in the tennis community. With a diverse membership and a wide range of coaching options, this club is paving the way for increased participation in tennis. Since its renovation in 2016, the club has seen tremendous growth, with a membership base of 235 players and 34 regular pay and play users.
Chairman Nigel Glenister shared the club’s journey, stating, ‘About 10 years ago, the club was a complete mess. We invested around £100,000 to resurface the courts, install new fencing, and even secured a nearby field for parking. The transformation has been remarkable.’
One of the key factors contributing to the club’s success is the employment of a full-time coach, Dan Smith, who is an LTA Level 4 Accredited Coach. Since joining in 2019, the coaching programme has expanded significantly, attracting around 75 juniors and offering a variety of sessions for adults, including cardio tennis and specialized technique training.
Dan Smith expressed his pride in the club’s coaching program, stating, ‘Our program is far superior to other local clubs. We offer a range of sessions that cater to different skill levels and interests. This variety has attracted players from other clubs who are looking for something more.’
What sets Lacey Green and Loosely Row apart from other clubs in the area is their innovative walking tennis initiative. Introduced in 2021, walking tennis provides a safe and inclusive way for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the sport at a gentler pace. The club has partnered with local organizations, such as GP surgeries and Age UK, to promote this initiative and engage with the wider community.
The club’s commitment to inclusivity is further demonstrated by their affordable membership options. Players can join on a coaching plan for just £20 a year, which includes discounted coaching rates. This approach encourages more people to get involved and eventually become full members of the club.
In addition to their outstanding coaching program, Lacey Green and Loosely Row prioritize the social aspect of the club. Regular events, such as gin and fizz nights, Christmas meals, and trips to La Manga in Spain, create a vibrant and enjoyable off-court experience for members. The club also organized an auction, raising an impressive £7,500.
Looking towards the future, Lacey Green and Loosely Row have exciting plans in store. They have submitted a planning application for a padel court and dedicated toilet facilities, aiming to enhance their offerings and attract even more players. Padel, a growing sport, is seen as an additional revenue stream and an opportunity for further growth.
Chairman Nigel Glenister emphasized the importance of continuous improvement, stating, ‘We recognize that standing still is not an option. We must keep evolving and ensuring our club remains up to date to attract new members.’
Lacey Green and Loosely Row Tennis Club is a hidden gem in Buckinghamshire, providing a welcoming, fun, and affordable environment for tennis enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. With their commitment to inclusivity, innovative initiatives, and exciting future plans, this club is undoubtedly making a name for itself in the tennis community.