PETER Rodgers was unanimously elected last week as the new chairman at Tavistock Tennis Club’s annual meeting.

He thanked the outgoing chairman, Paul Jackson, for all the work he had done, before outlining his vision for the future of the club.

‘It’s important that children are given the opportunity to take up sport at the earliest opportunity, so that fitness becomes a natural part of their lives.  I’d like to see free mini-tennis made available for children in public parks, in the same way that councils across the country provide playgrounds — why not?

‘All it takes is an inexpensive marked out court with a small net, and parents can bring down their own mini-racquets and a large fluffy ball, watch their kids having a great time, and join in.  But I’m also keen to increase the number of adults taking up sport.  

‘Tennis is an excellent way to maintain fitness, and thus overall health, throughout life, without the need to embark on a rigorous diet or an ambitious gym/running routine: tennis sustains itself because it’s sociable and fun.  We already run "rusty racquet" coaching sessions for adults, and I hope to initiate a series of open sessions that will encourage beginners of all ages to put any inhibitions behind them, come down to the club, pick up a tennis racquet and have a go.

‘I am also keen, especially now that the new fencing and gates makes access to our courts easier, to encourage wheelchair users to take up wheelchair tennis.’