The Deputy Minister for Culture and Sport, Ken Skates visited the Cardiff Wheelchair Tennis Club to see the successful work the club has achieved and to find out more about the inclusive approach to the sport that Tennis Wales is taking.
Cardiff Wheelchair Tennis Club was formed in 2001 and provides opportunities for wheelchair (and ambulant) tennis players from across South Wales to play recreational and competitive tennis. The club caters for physically disabled adults and children, although the Club welcomes players who are not wheelchair users. Anyone with mobility difficulties is welcome. Tennis (sports) wheelchairs are available for use for those wishing to try the sport.
The Club currently enjoys a membership of 24 including 12 chair users who meet twice a week at the David Lloyd Centre, Cardiff and players will be able to meet the Deputy Minister and share their experiences talking through the benefits of playing the sport as well as highlighting the great work the club has done.
Tennis Wales is a key partner to the Club, providing funding to engage a professional coach for two hours per week. Tennis Wales is committed to increasing opportunities and accessibility for people with disabilities to play tennis across Wales and is currently working in-partnership with Disability Sport Wales to achieve their ‘insport’ silver award.
The Deputy Minister took part in the activity session and stated:
“It’s fantastic to see the facilities at David Lloyd Tennis Centre for people of all levels and abilities. I am a firm believer in the power of sport, not only for the excellent health benefits, but for mental well-being too. Participating in sport builds confidence and self-esteem. This is why it’s important to create opportunities for everyone to participate in physical activity and I applaud the club for their positive work and commitment.”
Jon Morgan, Executive Director at Disability Sport Wales, commented:
“Wheelchair tennis is a rapidly growing sport and we are delighted that the Deputy Minister is visiting Cardiff Wheelchair Tennis Club to see the great work that they have been doing as well as hearing more about their ambitious plans for the future. The Club is really gaining momentum and is working well with Tennis Wales through their inclusive tennis programme.”
Peter Drew, Tennis Wales CEO, “It's great to have the Deputy Minister here today and showing such a keen interest and commitment to sport for people with disabilities in Wales. Tennis Wales is totally committed to increasing accessibility and opportunities for people with disabilities to play tennis. We have set very ambitious plans for this and in just the last year we have had more than 200 new people with disabilities take up tennis across all the different categories of disability, including deaf, wheelchair, learning disabilities, and visually impaired. So it’s really great and encouraging to have the Deputy Minister here showing his commitment and support to this work and the great work that the Cardiff Wheelchair Tennis Club are doing.”
Tony Goold, Vice Chair of Cardiff Wheelchair Tennis Club, key volunteer and coach stated “Our wheelchair tennis players enjoyed demonstrating their skills to the Deputy Minister and we would like to thank him for visiting the club and getting involved in our session. I have coached at the club for 13years and their attitude and commitment to the sport is truly inspiring.”
