We’re thrilled been nominated for two 1st Tier British Tennis Awards by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) in Devon.
We are up for School of the Year, and also the Tennis For All award which recognises the efforts of the school to provide tennis facilities to the local community.
This fantastic double nomination is the culmination of hard work and dedication to reintroduce tennis to the curriculum for every student the school – a project that has incorporated tennis coach Iain Winstanley at Bounce Back Tennis.
The school courts, previously a tarmac area used for some lessons and car parking, were resurfaced in Spring 2022. Bounce Back Tennis provided us with the new tennis nets which has allowed every student at THS to receive 8 hours of tennis in their PE lessons. We are also now able to offer year round tennis as part of our extra curricular provision.
Rob Puzey, Head of PE at Tiverton High School, said: “The nominations show the commitment from our staff and the community to work together to improve both facilities and access to sport and helps us to ensure that every student has the opportunity to play any sport that they wish.
“To be nominated for these awards is recognition that we are offering opportunities for our students that we couldn’t before.”
We have entered boys and girls teams into the Devon Tennis leagues competing against the likes of Stover School and West Buckland School – and we are also now the host venue for the annual Play Your Way To Wimbledon competition, now in its third year this summer.
The courts are now used by over 1000 children and adults every week. Iain Winstanley commented: “The courts host everything from lessons, LTA league matches, tournaments and Fun Days. I’m so proud of everything the staff, students and Governors have done to bring tennis back to the curriculum and into the wider community.”
Reg Gilbert, Deputy Head of Tiverton High School, expressed his excitement about the dual nominations, stating: “It is truly a great honour for Tiverton High School to be considered for not just one, but two prestigious tennis awards. This recognition is a reflection of the unwavering dedication of our staff and pupils to excel and push themselves beyond boundaries. Even if the school does not secure either award, the mere nomination is a remarkable achievement in itself.”
In addition to the two school nominations, Iain himself has been nominated for the Development Coach of the Year Award. The awards ceremony will be held later in January. Well done all!
