Hi Chris, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I live in Kings Langley and have two grown up children from my first marriage. I work for Herts County Council in the Education Sector and, for the most part, enjoy my work, although managing people is not always easy! My husband and I love going to Turkey and often go twice a year. We also enjoy weekends away with friends. Tennis has been a huge part of my life and has enriched it in so many ways. As I head into my retirement years, I hope that I continue to stay fit enough to play tennis. I am also looking forward to trying pickle ball!
When and why did you start playing tennis?
I started playing tennis when I was very small! My mum was a county tennis and badminton player and my dad played too. I was taken to the club they played at every weekend and often evenings, so was involved in the tennis world from a young age.
What do you love about Leverstock Green Tennis Club?
I have played in many clubs over the years and, in my humble opinion, LGLTC is unique because of the people who coach and play there. Our coaches and members really do care about what happens at the club, and I feel the founding members created something remarkable which lasts to this day. I joined the club nearly 20 years ago and have made some special friends in those years.
What activities do you take part in at the club?
I remember when I joined the club being asked very quickly to play a ladies’ match, which I loved! As many people know I am quite competitive 😊 Over the years since I joined LGLTC I have played in hundreds of matches, some very enjoyable, some not quite so! I also enjoy the social side at the club and try to attend as many functions as I can.
What is your favourite event at the club?
My favourite event is the annual club champion finals days. The weather is usually beautiful and there are always a lot of people at the club. The atmosphere is fantastic, and it is so nice to see so many members there all at one time.
You are currently Chair of the Main Committee, what are the challenges and the rewards that come with this role?
I took on the role of Chair maybe 15 years ago, I can’t quite remember exactly when. The reason I took on the role was because I thought I could make a difference. In my day job I regularly chair meetings so thought I had transferable skills which could be used at the tennis club. It has been a steep learning curve, but the personal rewards have been significant in terms of my mental health. In terms of measuring happiness, most studies find a strong association between happiness and volunteering because it provides one with a sense of purpose and belonging.
Challenges? Far too many to mention here but each one has provided me with an opportunity to learn more about myself and become a better person as a result.
How would you like to see LGLTC evolve in the next few years?
It is no secret that our facilities need an overhaul. We appointed a Development Committee to investigate how we take the club forward and ensure its longevity. Hopefully the work being done by this committee will come to fruition in the not-too-distant future. My hopes for the club are that we can evolve into a modern club, fit for playing tennis into the next century.
Do you have a favourite pro tennis player and why?
As a teenager Bjorn Borg was my favourite tennis player, because I thought he was gorgeous!!
As an adult my favourite tennis player has always been Andy Murray. I have suffered with him over many a long match and still remember clearly when he won Wimbledon for the first time. I actually cried tears of joy for him! Weirdly enough I liken him to my son and so it feels personal when he is injured or loses a match (as I say this, I think this is very strange)!!!!!
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you on a tennis court?
I was playing a ladies’ match and during the match there was a dispute over the score. We tried to reconcile the score but couldn’t. My partner and I were sure we were right. The opposition then decided to stage a sit-down protest and went and sat at the back of the court. It was very funny both at the time and in retrospect. I can’t quite remember exactly what the outcome was! 😊
What would you say to someone who is thinking about taking up tennis but is hesitant?
In the words of Nike, just do it!! Tennis is one of those sports that brings people together, it is fun and is fantastic for both your physical and mental health. You can play tennis for a long time too! I started when I was 3 or 4 and am still playing 60 years later!
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