TVTF brings tennis equipment to local schools through First Serve
This week, Tees Valley Tennis Foundation made its first deliveries of free tennis equipment to primary schools across Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough and Redcar through our First Serve project.
Each of the first 12 schools received a mini tennis net, four junior rackets and suitable balls for PE lessons, playtimes and before and after school activities. Further deliveries across the Tees Valley are planned over the coming months.
More opportunities to play
For some children, school provides their first opportunity to experience tennis. Our First Serve project gives staff equipment they can use regularly, helping pupils try the sport, build confidence and enjoy being active.
Schools have already identified several uses for the packs, from supporting pupil Sports Leaders organising playground games to adding activities to wraparound care.
Lisa Lowe, trustee of Tees Valley Tennis Foundation, said: “We’ve had a really encouraging response from schools, with staff already identifying ways to use the equipment. We hope First Serve will help more children discover tennis and give them opportunities to keep playing.”
Helping our support reach further
First Serve extends the Foundation’s work supporting local young people and their families where cost is a barrier to tennis or padel.
Thank you to Karbon Homes for funding support and Net World Sports for its generous equipment donation, helping us reach more local schools. We also appreciate the school staff who have welcomed the project and shared their plans.
Further deliveries will follow, including schools receiving their packs in early 2027. We look forward to sharing updates as the equipment comes into use.
Support for young people and families
Applications for our individual support remain open to families with young people aged 8–18 living in the TS postcode area where cost is a barrier to tennis or padel.
Depending on circumstances, support can include help with coaching, equipment, travel and competition costs. Parents and carers can find out more about eligibility and apply through our support page.