Activity
Tennis, Padel, Pickleball
Audience
Children, Young People, Adults
Location
Ashford
Organisation
Wye Tennis Club is a thriving community club providing affordable tennis, padel and pickleball opportunities for all ages and abilities. The Club is committed to removing barriers to participation and creating a welcoming environment where everyone can connect, participate and belong. They offer both social and competitive play in a welcoming environment, helping new members feel part of the club while building strong partnerships and connections across the local community.
Supporting Welfare
Our Sport Welfare Officer, Rachel Daly, had the pleasure of visiting Wye Tennis Club. Chairman Graham Sutherland, who is stepping down after 21 years, shared two philosophies that have helped shape the club’s success: “Always say yes” and “Keep asking”.
These values have created a welcoming and inclusive culture where people feel they belong. In recent years, membership has grown from around 100 to more than 650, alongside significant investment in tennis, padel and pickleball facilities.
“What stood out most was that the facilities are not the reason for the club’s success, they are the result of a strong, inclusive culture. Good welfare starts long before a safeguarding concern arises. It begins with creating an environment where everyone feels they belong.” Rachel Daly
By prioritising belonging, inclusion and community connections, Wye Tennis Club has embedded welfare into everyday practice while supporting local organisations, like the Scout Group and primary school, through community grants.
Impact
Membership growth from around 100 to over 650.- Transformation from two ageing courts into a thriving multi-sport venue.
- Inclusive culture encouraging participation across all ages.
- Community grants supporting local organisations.
- A club where welfare is embedded through belonging, inclusion and leadership
Photo credit: Wye Tennis Club
Learnings
Welfare starts with belonging.- Leaders set the tone for inclusive cultures.
- Removing barriers encourages lifelong participation.
- Supporting the wider community strengthens the club.
- People-first leadership leads to sustainable growth.
Photo credit: Wye Tennis Club
Next Steps
The Club will continue to build on Graham Sutherland’s legacy by offering an accessible, welcoming and community-focused club under new leadership.
Interested in giving Tennis a go?
Take a look at Wye Tennis Club or visit www.everydayactivekent.org.uk and search ‘tennis’
