Across the Tees Valley, including areas such as Middlesbrough and Hartlepool, many communities face some of the highest levels of economic deprivation in England. According to recent data, residents in several neighbourhoods live with lower incomes, fewer local resources for sport, and higher travel burdens than young people in more affluent regions.

These inequalities mean that talented young players are often held back not by dedication or ability, but simply by cost - whether it's paying for individual coaching, squad sessions, equipment, entry fees, or transportation to tournaments. It is awful to say, but tennis can become a sport of opportunity for those with means, not of potential for all.

At the Tees Valley Tennis Foundation, we believe that talent shouldn’t be determined by postcode. We are committed to breaking down those financial and geographic barriers so that every young person across Teesside has the chance to stay in the game, develop their skills and enjoy the benefits of sport.

By investing in local players, supporting clubs and coaches committed to inclusivity, and building a stronger network of accessible tennis and padel in our wonderful part of the world, we're working towards a future where the Tees Valley becomes a place of sporting opportunity - not of sporting limitation.