A Landmark Moment in Tennis
The birth of Pride in Tennis (PiT) is a landmark moment in British tennis. At the recent launch event, participants’ stories made me realise how vital we are because of the challenges LGBTQ+ people continue to face in the sport.
As a PiT board member and LTA Volunteering Manager, I’ve heard how people value connecting with others to feel less alone, as well as building connections to local LGBTQ+ tennis groups to play a sport they love or just want to try. As a member of BLAGSS Tennis, I can attest to the value of joining a group where I can genuinely be myself on and off the court.
In these early days, we have lots to do. We want to:
Ensure greater diversity within PiT itself
Support the development of new LGBTQ+ clubs
Facilitate connections between established clubs
Help local clubs become more LGBTQ+ inclusive
Sport has not always been the most comfortable bed-fellow for LGBTQ+ communities, but things seem to be changing. Excitingly, for example, there will be Pride Days at four major LTA Tennis Events this summer – a really visible marker of inclusion.
Here are some of the things you can do to play your part:
Following Pride in Tennis on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn
Showing your support at one of the four Pride Days, on Fridays at Queens, Nottingham, Birmingham & Eastbourne
Joining a local LGBTQ+ tennis group or talk to us about setting up a new group
Sharing your experiences and promoting inclusion wherever you play tennis
Thank you for being a part of this journey with us!
About the author - Alex Beaumont (he/him) is the Safeguarding Officer of Pride in Tennis and the Volunteering Manager for the Lawn Tennis Association. He is a regular player at BLAGGS, Brighton’s LGBTQ+ tennis club.
