Choosing a racket is easy, but finding the perfect racket is somewhat complicated. I will give you some suggestions, but I recommend that you “demo” a variety of racquets, on court in order to find your perfect weapon!

The professionals tend to favour a heavier racket to create more power whereas a beginner or intermediate is usually better off with a lighter racket.

Head size follows a similar pattern, with the pros using a smaller head size and beginners preferring an oversize racket.

The grip should be large enough so that you can put your other index finger in the space created when you wrap your hand around the grip.

Stiff racket flex will give you more control, and a more flexible racket will give you more power.

Tighter strings give you more control, and looser strings give you more power.

Every 18 months or so racket manufacturers bring out new and improved rackets featuring new technology and materials evolve, so it is often very hard to find the perfect racket for you. My search for the perfect racket continues!

But what a lot of you are unaware of is that Gary Drake is still very much a competition player.  After a typical day of 8 hours coaching, Gary changes into his GB gear and heads to Wimbledon to represents GB in the Over 35 squad.  This month saw Gary playing for the GB Over 35 against visiting Spanish players from the Barcelona Academy.  Gary played and won all 3 doubles matches a total of 6 sets.

Gary also has been competing in the All England Club Championship, and this week will see him play against Lee Childs in the quarter finals of the Men’s Singles and also playing alongside Gary Stewart in the quarter finals of the Men’s Doubles. 

Good luck in the next round of competitions Gary and keep us posted on how you’re doing.

It’s that time of year again when your membership is up for renewal.

There are three ways to get your renewal pack.

1.           Collect from the office
2.           Request the information to be sent by post - simply email the office
3.           Print your own application & payment form from the links below:

Application Form           every member must complete one
Standing Order Form   for those who want to pay over 12 months
Full Payment Form       for those who want to pay in one lump sum (by cheque)

This year we are pleased to announce that you can spread the cost of membership over a 12 month period. To qualify simply complete the Application Form plus the Standing Order Form and return them to the office by March 21st and we’ll do the rest. We hope that this proves to be a more manageable way to pay your annual subscription. You can of course opt for the one-off, up-front payment but full payment must be with the office no later than the 31st of March.

Any queries or concerns should be raised with the office at your earliest convenience.