Drumchapel Tennis Club gets royal approval

A group of young tennis enthusiasts are put through their paces at Drumchapel.

They are certainly starting them young at the Glasgow club that boasts four courts – three floodlit – at Old Drumchapel and also uses facilities at Drumchapel and Knightswood public parks.

With David Buchanan-Smith as a full-time coach, the club runs sessions for two local nurseries, Gowanlea and  Little Fishes.

“We start them from as early as two years of age,” said club president Eric Flack. “We have a complete programme, with in-school and after-school classes.”

Antonine and Langfaulds primary schools are in the club’s G15 catchment area and the club also strays into the West Dunbartonshire school area. The good work continues when pupils move to Drumchapel High.

“We certainly try our best and have a great connection with the local schools,” Flack continued. “David also puts youngsters through the coaching programme.

“We run free sessions on Saturdays for all ages. At the end of the session, we have a Festival of Tennis.”

Andy Murray’s mum, Judy, has given her support to the Drumchapel cause and, in September, the club received a royal seal of approval with a visit by Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester.

The club also recently enjoyed a chance to see the Davis Cup when Team GB captain Leon Smith visited Glasgow with the famous trophy.

The Duchess visited the Glasgow club as part of her role with the Council of the Lawn Tennis Association. She was thrilled to see the positive difference Drumchapel makes to the community.

“We were delighted to host this visit by Her Royal Highness and it is great to know that all our hard work is being recognised,” Flack added.

“The club has been at the heart of Drumchapel for more than 100 years and we are determined to keep it here for 100 more. Partnerships are key to that and we’ve had great support from our stakeholders and funding partners.”