Eight of our tennis players from senior ranks, both boys and girls, went to the National Tennis Centre Roehampton on Saturday 25 February to take part in Bright Ideas for Tennis’ 24-hour tennis marathon.
The marathon, organised by Danny Sapsford, former professional player, started the charity Bright ideas for Tennis, to try and get more people playing tennis, including the less able-bodied.
Pupils saw first-hand how the charity raises money to enable less able-bodied people to enjoy playing tennis, including groups of blind and partially sighted players, and those with Down’s syndrome and other learning difficulties.
Head of Tennis Veronica Peck, commented: “Wow, it was so inspiring and heart-warming to see the pleasure and happiness radiating from them all, alongside the skills they showed. Bryanston pupils enjoyed hitting balls with ex-pros Tim Henman, Marcus Willis, Lucy Ahl, Julie Pullin, Martin Lee, as well as playing with the less able-bodied athletes. It was a wonderful experience.”
Lola C commented: “We started off by warming up and getting to know all the instructors – there were some ex-professional players too, including Tim Henman! Throughout the four-hour session, we did some drills, played matches and engaged with the teachers. It was great to be given the opportunity to see how less able-bodied players have adapted the game to cater towards being visually impaired or fully blind.”
Watch the charity video with highlights from the day, featuring our very own Veronica Peck alongside Tim Henman!
