Creating unforgettable moments on and off the court during grass court season
• 4 minute read
Every summer, the LTA's grass court season offers more than world-class tennis. It provides a unique opportunity for the LTA Tennis Foundation to celebrate its work, create unforgettable experiences for funded partners and beneficiaries, and raise vital funds to support life-changing opportunities through tennis.
One of the highlights of this year's grass court season was creating 26 unique experiences for people from across the charity's network, helping to create memories that will last a lifetime.
From stepping onto Centre Court to take part in a pre-match coin toss, to enjoying behind-the-scenes tours and exclusive visits to press and media facilities, these moments offered unique access to some of the sport's most iconic settings. Areas that are normally reserved for players, officials and media became places of discovery for young people and community partners from across Britain.
The impact of these experiences extends far beyond a single day. For many participants, they provide a boost in confidence, a sense of belonging, and the belief that they are part of something bigger. In some cases, they encourage people to step outside their comfort zone and see new possibilities for themselves.
Carl, a Sports Development Officer for London Youth, was offered the chance to take part in a coin toss at the HSBC Championships. Reflecting on the experience, he said "I just wanted to say a big thank you again for the tickets to the HSBC Championships – it really was an amazing experience. I had the opportunity to do the coin toss, which was a real highlight, and something I’ll remember. (I got to keep the coin!)" He has also brought a group of young people with him to experience tennis for the first time, and went on to say, "Thank you for the opportunity you gave our young people to be part of such a special experience."
Across the summer, the charity was also the beneficiary of two community-focused events: HSBC Championships Opened Up at The Queen's Club and the Fan Day Open Practice at the Lexus Eastbourne Open. Both events gave partners the opportunity to spend time on court with some of the world's best players, creating memories and inspiring the next generation of tennis players.
Lola-Rose who was part of the day at the HSBC Championships said, "It was a lot of pressure, but having the team, my friends, and my coach behind me really lifted me up and enabled me to be confident enough to do it (play on the Andy Murray Arena at the HSBC Championships) today. This experience inspires me to play more tennis, and to believe in myself so much more."
While unforgettable experiences were being created on court, supporters were also playing their part off it. Throughout the summer, fans, partners and stakeholders got behind a series of fundraising initiatives that will help create even more opportunities in the years ahead.
New for this year was the Golden Shot, a fun activation where people had to try to get their highest score with five shots. This proved hugely popular, with thousands of people taking part across the grass court season. A few professional players had a go as well, with Laura Robson, tournament director for the WTA week at the HSBC Championship getting the highest score of the season!
Supporters once again had the opportunity to purchase match-used tennis balls, giving them a unique memento to take home from the events. They also had the chance to meet British and international players for photos and signings, including Alfie Hewett, Gordon Reid, Mika Stojsavljevic, Jack Draper, Taylor Fritz and Juan Manuel Cerúndolo.
Name that Ball also provided a fun way to support the charity, offering event spectators the chance to personalise a tennis ball with any name or emoji, with a percentage from each purchase coming to LTA Tennis Foundation.
The season was also made possible by a team of dedicated volunteers who gave their time to support fundraising activities. A huge thank you to everyone who put on a pink t-shirt and helped make the grass court season such a success.
The grass court season is often remembered for great matches and memorable performances, but for the LTA Tennis Foundation it is the people behind the experiences who stand out most. Whether it's stepping onto Centre Court for the first time, exploring behind the scenes of a major tournament, or meeting sporting role models, these moments show how tennis can have an impact far beyond the baseline.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of supporters throughout the grass court season, we anticipate over half a million pounds will have been raised to help more people across Britain access opportunities that can change their lives.
Share your love of tennis
As the British grass court season comes to a close, we're asking you to help change lives by donating £10 to the LTA Tennis Foundation.
