What a wonderful week it has been with a record number of young players taking part in our eleventh Junior Tennis Festival. The support we have had from the local business community in the form of funding, sponsored prizes and refreshments has been more than generous.

Our club has always concentrated in looking after the new generation of juniors and as a result there are players and coaches of high standard throughout the province who commenced there play in Ballymena Lawn Tennis Club.

This week we were blessed with excellent weather every day and with approximately 70 young players attending our coaches did a marvellous job catering for all standards. The young players ranged from 6 to 17 years of age as can be seen from the photograph which includes Councillor Mills the Mayor of Ballymena who is a great supporter of sport.

The week consisted of coaching at all standards by our team of qualified coaches along with many assistants and supervisors to meet the highest standards of Child care and Safety.

Our aim was to provide enjoyment combining coaching with fun and games throughout the week which was certainly achieved. On Friday competitions were held for all age groups with a number of winners who were awarded an excellent range of prizes donated by our sponsors.

A most successful week in every way enjoyed not alone our young players but also by all of us who had the pleasure in taking part.

On behalf of all our members I would again like to thank our many sponsors and also our local radio station for their coverage which was excellent .

Fergus Barklie

Ballymena Lawn Tennis Club Chairman.