Over 30 current and former British tennis stars are came together over the weekend of February 21st – 22nd at the National Tennis Centre for an extraordinary 24 hour challenge: to raise vital awareness and funds for disability tennis. But they couldn’t do it alone — they need opponents.
This is where Middlesex Tennis Trustee Anne Nicholls came in. She took a group of Rally Together tennis players from Mayfield Tennis Club to Roehampton as one of the teams.
Here’s her experience:
“Last Saturday, 16 of our wonderful Rally Together players from Mayfield Tennis headed to the Bright Ideas for Tennis 24-hour marathon at the National Tennis Centre at Roehampton and they were absolutely BRILLIANT.
These are players with learning, physical and sensory disabilities. And on Saturday, they played on the same courts as the pros. And they were magnificent.
For 90 minutes:
They competed.
They focused.
They encouraged one another.Not just included but they belonged.
Our logo says: Ability. Not Disability.
Saturday proved what that means.When organisations create inclusive spaces and remove barriers, young people don’t just participate: they thrive.
Confidence grows.
Social skills develop.
Physical health improves.
Community strengthens, and so much more.The talent is there.
The determination is there.
The joy is absolutely there.What makes the difference? Opportunity.
I am SO proud to be part of a community that makes space for everyone. And so grateful to everyone who makes Rally Together at Mayfield Tennis possible. The volunteers, the supporters, the parents, the club members, the believers.
Thank you,
AnnePS How lucky were we to have @adamhillscomedy and Parastanding tennis player presenting our medals. 🎾 💚
#abilittynotdisability. #inclusionforall #disabilitytennis #tennisforall #learningdisability.”
Anne Nicholls
Event Facts – Bright Ideas for Tennis 24-hour Tennis Marathon
- There is availability for 12 fundraising teams to take part in the event
- Each team will be allocated a 4-hour slot between midday Saturday and midday Sunday (midday-4pm, 4pm-8pm, 8pm-midnight, midnight-4am, 4am-8am, 8am-midday). There are two teams taking part in every 4 hour slot.
- Teams: You can have as many players as you like in your team. We suggest 8 players so that everyone gets some good court time over the 4 hours. It’s up to you but remember, more players = more active fundraisers!!
- The Fundraising goal for each team is £5,000. A minimum of £2,000 to be raised 6 weeks before the event
- Reach your fundraising team target and we will deliver a Pro Open Day at your venue with masterclasses, Q&A’s and more! PLUS there are rewards for the top 3 individual fundraisers and the highest fundraising team!
To secure your team for the next event email Clare Appleby at [email protected].
