A Stockport woman has been recognised for her innovative work to grow disability tennis in the region at the prestigious LTA Tennis Awards.
Offerton’s Susan Morrison, 55, brings tennis workshops into local SEND schools alongside running an inclusive tennis business that develops products and training programmes.
Morrison has sent special packs of equipment out to disabled children during the Coronavirus crisis supported by online tutorials to help them play during lockdown.
Her outstanding efforts have been recognised with the Disability Award for the North and it’s fair to say she’s barely calmed down since finding out the good news.
“I was so delighted when I heard the news – I couldn’t stop telling everyone I coach throughout the week,” said Morrison.
“It means the world to me and for the work that I’ve been doing for 35 years to be recognised by the LTA. It feels like I have their backing to be a role model for future generations to enjoy tennis no matter their ability.
“I have always been passionate about the sport and I feel that everyone can play it, no matter your age or ability. It’s a great social game that stays with you for life.”
Successful regional winners will now progress through to the LTA’s National finals in each of their respective categories, with Morrison’s accomplishments to be judged alongside the best in the country.
LTA Chief Executive Scott Lloyd said: “These awards acknowledge the extraordinary contribution of the individuals and venues that help us open tennis up, bringing new fans and players to our sport.
“Now more than ever, it is important we celebrate their contributions and hope that tennis can rally together to get through this very challenging time.”
Launched in 2015, the LTA Tennis Awards serve to acknowledge the many thousands of individuals involved in tennis – from the 25,000 volunteers, to the 4,400 coaches and 940 officials, as well as the 20,000 schools, 2,700 clubs and over 9,700 LTA approved tournaments across the country.
Now in their fifth year, a record number of 2,100 nominations were received nationally for this year’s awards.
For more information about the work the LTA is doing to grow tennis in Britain, log onto www.LTA.org.uk.
