Pangbourne Lawn Tennis Club has been bestowed with the esteemed title of LTA Club of the Year, a recognition attributed to its exceptional 400 per cent growth in membership, which is a testament to the club’s dedication to investment and outreach efforts.
The annual LTA Tennis Awards, in partnership with Lexus, were held at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton, where Kim DeMarchi, 57, and Rich Raynes, 46, represented the Pangbourne Club. They were deeply moved as they received this prestigious recognition for their hard work.
DeMarchi conveyed her profound gratitude, emphasizing the outstanding commitment and effort made by the club’s volunteers and committee over the past years. Raynes echoed her sentiments, acknowledging the collective dedication of the members in promoting tennis for all and striving to make the sport enjoyable for everyone.
Established in 2015 with support from former LTA president Cathie Sabin OBE, the LTA Awards honour the invaluable contributions of volunteers, coaches, officials, and players in the ongoing advancement and expansion of tennis in Britain. These awards showcase the depth of talent and dedication within the tennis community, setting an example for others to engage with the sport.
Pangbourne Lawn Tennis Club witnessed a substantial increase in their membership, growing from 50 to 300 in just four years. DeMarchi attributed this success to the club’s inclusive ethos, emphasizing the importance of making individuals feel welcome and part of a community. She highlighted the positive feedback received from new members, who expressed their admiration for the club’s welcoming and inclusive environment.
The commitment to inclusivity is further evidenced by the club’s plans to open up opportunities for disability tennis and cater to individuals of all ages and abilities. This vision has been instrumental in the club’s accomplishments and is a testament to their dedication to making tennis accessible to all.
LTA President Sandi Procter commended the winners and finalists, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to the sport. Procter emphasized the significant impact of volunteers, officials, and coaches in expanding and enriching the tennis community, stating that the awards serve to recognize their selfless dedication and invaluable efforts in popularizing and nurturing the sport.
The LTA Tennis Awards, in collaboration with Lexus, continue to inspire and uplift the tennis community, promoting excellence and inclusivity within the sport.
In conclusion, Pangbourne Lawn Tennis Club’s remarkable achievement in winning the LTA Club of the Year award is a testament to their unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals interested in tennis. Their success serves as an inspiration to the wider tennis community and underscores the importance of dedication and inclusivity in sports clubs and organizations.