Thousands of children to benefit from tennis at home during lockdown

When children in Tameside moved online for schooling, and Sport ground to a halt, local Tennis coach Andy Perry who works at Priory Tennis Club in Stalybridge decided action was needed.

So he teamed up with the School Games Organiser for Tameside, Emma Toone and started delivering 30 minute online videos which the children can play along to whether they are in school or at home. 

These fun, engaging online tennis sessions are designed for all primary age children and work in a small space, with everyday equipment. Children could use a frying pan if they had no racket, or a pair of socks instead of a ball, and each week Andy has uploaded new content to keep the children active during this difficult time. Alongside Emma, he also created a Tennis Bingo challenge with children busy completing 16 tennis related challenges to win a medal and be in with a chance of winning a brand new Tennis Racket. 

Andy, who has worked at Priory for several years now said: ‘It became apparent that children were missing out on sport and staying active during the most recent lockdown. We know how sport can have a positive effect on a person's wellbeing, and being able to stay fit and well. By bringing tennis into the home, regardless of space or equipment, was a fun way to introduce children to a new sport. But more then anything, it gave the children something different to have a go at and set them fun challenges to do’ 

Whilst it is hoped the children will all be back in their classrooms from the 8th March, Tennis outside won’t be permitted until the 29th March. But with these online classes, those Wimbledon dreams can stay active in the homes of children around the borough. 

Juniors of all ages can play Tennis all year round at Priory tennis club in Stalybridge, which has been transformed in recent years with investment on all its facilities, and in 2021 it has been recognised by The LTA and shortlisted for their prestigious Club of the Year title.

The online Tennis videos can be viewed by going to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnFtSb4Gn5c&t=35s

And for more information about Tennis at Priory, Andy can be contacted on 07525 795445.

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