JUNIOR TENNIS COACHING REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

David Lloyd Clubs announces a renewed three-year partnership with professional tennis coach Judy Murray, continuing a successful collaboration that has helped drive a 13% rise in the number of children enrolled in its Tennis Stars junior coaching programme, since the partnership started in 2023

This renewed commitment follows record-breaking participation with over 1,400 additional children taking part on the weekly coaching programme compared to the same time last year, bringing the total to 16,000.

Judy Murray, a long-time advocate for grassroots development and inclusive sport, will continue as the Tennis Stars Ambassador and support coach mentoring, programme development, and exclusive member events. Her influence has been instrumental in enhancing the credibility and appeal of junior tennis at David Lloyd Clubs.

Judy Murray said: “Helping more children fall in love with tennis in a fun, supportive environment has always been my mission. David Lloyd Clubs have created something really special, where kids not only develop the skills they need to be able to play the game but grow in confidence, build friendships, and feel part of a team. I’m delighted to continue this journey with them.”

The junior programme relaunched in 2023 aims to support children’s physical and cognitive development, especially in the under 10’s age group . Not only does it aim to improve tennis skills but also helps improve confidence, social skills, and overall wellbeing. The rebranded programme now includes extensive reward and recognition mechanisms underpinned by a comprehensive curriculum, with expert age-appropriate activities in a safe, friendly environment.

Unlike many traditional kids’ tennis coaching programmes, David Lloyd Clubs member competitions are run in a team-based format, offering children a sense of belonging and fun. This inclusive approach has been key in boosting retention and enthusiasm among young players, with the highlight being our annual National Tennis Stars Championships. Every year nearly 100 clubs battle it out as team of red, orange and green players across, club, regional and national finals.

Simon Pearson, head of racquets at David Lloyd Clubs, comments; “Our partnership with Judy is about more than coaching. It’s about changing the culture of how children experience tennis. With her continued support and our new coaching content, investment in facilities, and competitions, we’re setting a new standard in junior sport. The growth we’ve had is testament to the new framework we’ve developed with industry experts, putting fun at the heart of our coaching sessions to develop the skills necessary to excel at the game.

The David Lloyd Club’s tennis credentials continue to grow, having recently celebrated its first Wimbledon champion, Henry Patten who began their journey in the very same junior coaching programme at David Lloyd Clubs in Ipswich. Currently world number 4, Henry has recently won another grand slam title at the Australian Open.

The new three-year agreement with Judy Murray will focus on expanding opportunities for young players, coach education, and bringing even more innovation to family-focused tennis at clubs across the UK and Europe

Kids' tennis lessons at David Lloyd Clubs are a fun and energetic way for children to learn the game. With expert coaching and age-appropriate activities, they’ll develop skills, confidence, and a love for tennis - all in a safe, friendly environment. Find your nearest David Lloyd Club here and get in touch.

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About David Lloyd Leisure Group:

David Lloyd Leisure helps members to live life better with a focus on physical and mental well-being and a sense of belonging. Our team and members collaborate to make a positive impact on the communities and environment in which we all want to thrive.

We are Europe’s largest health and fitness group operating 130 clubs - 101 clubs in the UK and a further 29 clubs across mainland Europe, comprising three brands David Lloyd Clubs, Harbour Clubs, and Meridian Spa and Fitness in Germany. We continually innovate to offer the best products and services for families and individuals in welcoming surroundings including state-of-the-art gyms, heated indoor and outdoor pools, top-class racquet facilities, well-equipped group exercise studios, luxurious spas, kids club facilities, and crèches. Our Clubrooms offer a place to spend time with friends and family or enjoy a bite to eat, our clubs also feature large and inviting spaces to work, relax and socialise. Our 710,000 members and over 10,000 team members make a positive impact on the communities and environment in which we operate. We have an expert health and fitness team of over 2000 and more than 680 tennis professionals work with us. David Lloyd Clubs’ racquet facilities are unparalleled with over 1080 tennis courts as well as over 400 badminton and squash courts.