We all enjoy an underdog story and here at The Lensbury we’ve recently had one of our own that’s truly impressive.
Towards the end of 2022, Lensbury members Glenis Rylance and Helen John decided to form their own tennis team to compete against the existing teams at the Club.
The word went out and within a few weeks twelve enthusiastic players came together for the first time and The Lensbury 6th team was formed, with the support of Racquets Manager, Matt Banister. Soon growing to 16 people they began training once or twice a week throughout the winter.
Captain Helen John said: “We didn’t know each other when we got together but over the past year, the team has gelled and solid friendships formed. We all had the tennis ability but with the help of the coaches, soon acquired match tactics. The improvement has been extraordinary.”
Astonishingly, in their first season this brand new team won their league, remaining undefeated throughout summer 2023.
“Most of the players had never played at a competitive level before but demonstrated ability and enthusiasm. It’s great to win a league, but especially impressive for a new team in their first season” said Matt.
Following a shake-up of the women’s team, the new squad will now play as the Lensbury 5th and 6th teams.
If you wish to join The Lensbury’s tennis teams, please get in contact with one of our helpful coaches or Racquets Manager Matt Bannister on tennis.manager@lensbury.com.