Community Scholarship
Shirley Tennis Club introduced a Community Scholarship in 2021 to support the participation of children and young people whose families would otherwise potentially be unable to afford for their children to play tennis.
We liaise with Banks Avenue School and Shirley Intermediate School to offer a total of three free scholarships each year. The scholarships offer:
- Two years of free membership
- Two years of free coaching
- A free tennis racquet
- A pair of shoes (if required)
So far we have had nine students participate in the scholarship, eight of which are still active members of the club - an excellent retention rate especially when considering the financial challenges that many struggling families may face.
Another aspect of our community outreach is the provision of free coaching to up to five local schools each year. Through both these activities we are growing the interest in our wider community for the wonderful sport of tennis.
We are aware of the research that indicates the multiple benefits to children and young people of participating in sports in terms of socialisation, health, and positive self-image. We are proud to be able to support our community in this way.
The scholarship programme has a very positive impact on the Club. Our members are proud to be part of a club that gives back to its community.
We have set up a benefactor fund that is set aside to support scholarship students with any needs that may arise (shoes if required are funded through this). Club members have contributed to this fund knowing that they are helping children get involved in the sport that they themselves love.
Our outreach coaching programme no doubt contributes to the large number of juniors who enroll each year. We are a club that lives and breathes its community. We'd really love to see this idea taken up by clubs of all sorts throughout Aotearoa.
Shirley Tennis Club has been awarded the 2024 Tennis NZ Community Impact award.
We are very proud to have received this award in recognition of the important part we play in the Community, not only over the last three years, but also specifically over the post Earthquake period where we were a vital link for the Community given the devastation that many families experienced.