A petition has been launched, calling on the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) to reverse its decision to terminate all Youth Tennis Community Programmes (ages 5 to 16) at the National Tennis Centre (NTC) in London.
The LTA Youth Programmes have been vital in developing new talent, providing high-quality coaching and resources that many children would otherwise not have access to. These programmes have made tennis accessible to players from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, ensuring inclusivity and representation.
As a consequence of this decision, over 220 children will be compelled to find privately run tennis clubs and coaches to continue playing tennis and begin their careers as tennis players.
Evan Michaels, who is behind the petition, remarked: “After another year with no British players making it to the second week of Wimbledon, it’s clear that the LTA needs to realise that the future of British tennis lies with the young generation, not just the current elite.
“These programmes are the cornerstone of the LTA’s mission, fostering grassroots and youth tennis development, and are essential for nurturing future British and Wimbledon champions.
“The LTA management are refusing to reconsider their decision and they are harming the future of British tennis.
“We are urging everyone to publicise this petition and support our cause. Your coverage can make a difference in ensuring that the National Tennis Centre continues to nurture young talent and invest in the future of British tennis.”
The petition aims to persuade the Lawn Tennis Association and National Tennis Centre management to reconsider the closure of the junior programmes.
Evan added: “We want to ensure that grassroots tennis continues to thrive at the NTC, keeping the doors open to all ages, skill levels, colours, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
“It is crucial to embrace and develop future champions by maintaining these critical youth programmes and open up tennis to everyone, not just the elite and the wealthy.”
The petition page is available at www.change.org/p/stop-the-lta-closing-all-the-youth-tennis-programmes.
