Launching Thanet's first tennis Disability Sessions
Net Gain CIC continues to break barriers in Thanet, delivering disability-friendly tennis sessions in collaboration with Inclusive Sport. These sessions, supported by a three-year LTA funding grant, have created inclusive opportunities for individuals with diverse needs to engage in tennis. The first phase of the programme focuses on SEND children at Margate Lawn Tennis Club, individuals with mobility impairments at Spencer Square, and adults with learning disabilities, also at Spencer Square. Looking ahead, Phase 2 in 2025 will see the introduction of new initiatives, including partnerships with Vanessa at Whitstable Tennis Club to establish dementia-friendly sessions and activities for care home residents.
Net Gain CIC has played a pivotal role in supporting these initiatives, providing free equipment, apprentice coaches, free courts at Spencer Square, and discounted courts at Margate. This ensures the programme remains accessible to all. The inclusion of a neurodivergent apprentice coach with ADHD further demonstrates Net Gain CIC’s commitment to representation and empowerment. This opportunity has had a transformative effect on the coach while reinforcing the organisation’s ethos of inclusivity.
Beyond the disability sessions, Net Gain CIC has been at the forefront of developing Walking Tennis, which fosters both social connections and physical well-being. A recent trial session in Herne Bay attracted 10 new participants, complementing established groups at Broadstairs and St Peter’s LTC. Participants from these groups also took part in Kent’s first inter-club Walking Tennis match against Whitstable, exemplifying the sense of community these sessions inspire. Regular social events, including Christmas gatherings, have further strengthened these bonds.
Net Gain CIC is redefining inclusion in tennis. Through tailored opportunities and supportive communities, it is transforming lives and creating spaces where everyone feels valued. With ambitious plans for 2025, Net Gain CIC’s dedication to inclusivity and innovation continues to inspire and impact the community.
Net Gain CIC collaborate with Pride in Tennis
As someone from the queer community, the nominator expresses immense pride in recognising Net Gain for their outstanding efforts in fostering inclusivity and accessibility in tennis for LGBTQ+ individuals. Finding spaces that offer genuine warmth and support can be challenging, but they have succeeded in creating something truly remarkable.
Among the most impactful initiatives are the LGBTQ+ social tennis sessions held at Spencer Square on Sunday afternoons. These sessions are designed to be affordable—just £4 after an initial free session—and cater to beginners, with free coaching available to help newcomers feel at ease. Since their inception, the sessions have attracted over 50 participants, many of whom return weekly to enjoy a supportive and welcoming community. These gatherings have become much more than just tennis; they are a space for connection, joy, and authenticity.
Net Gains commitment extends far beyond the court. They organised a Pride in Tennis course that included members of the queer community and young coaches, fostering an understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, including barriers to inclusion, mental health issues, and health inequalities. It is particularly inspiring to see a straight ally like Gavid not only listening but actively learning and driving meaningful change.
Practical steps have further cemented Infinity Tennis’s dedication. All partner venues have been registered with the Pride in Tennis Allies Programme, ensuring LGBTQ+ players feel safe and welcomed. Additionally, they have submitted a funding bid to KCC to support coaching qualifications for queer individuals, opening up pathways for representation within the sport.
What Net Gain have achieved is extraordinary. They have created a space where the queer community can truly flourish, both on and off the court, and their efforts richly deserve this recognition.
Working with the East Kent Community Partnership (EKCP) on schools delivery
Net Gain CIC has been nominated for the Kent Tennis Award for its exceptional efforts in making tennis accessible to children in disadvantaged areas. Through a £10,000 grant awarded jointly to Net Gain and a partner organization, a schools project was initiated to introduce tennis to schools with high levels of pupil premium (40–70%). In Thanet, one of the most deprived areas in the country, this initiative has provided children with opportunities to experience tennis within their schools and progress toward long-term participation in the sport.
As part of this project, Net Gain CIC ensured each school received a complimentary bundle of equipment, including nets, rackets, and balls, making tennis a sustainable part of the curriculum. The project also focused on developing human resources by funding Level 1 and Level 2 coaching courses to enable more individuals to deliver high-quality sessions. A standout feature of the initiative was the determination to extend its impact. Following the initial funding, additional support was secured to offer free LTA Youth Start sessions, providing 32 enthusiastic children with six weeks of free coaching, as well as their own tennis racket and balls. Furthermore, two children were awarded Rally for Change grants, removing financial barriers to their continued participation in tennis.
Net Gain CIC’s impact goes beyond this schools project. For years, the organization has partnered with the East Kent Community Partnership (EKCP) and Dover College to deliver tennis programmes in schools with high levels of free school meals. These collaborations have culminated in two memorable tennis festivals, attended by 180 children and featuring activities led by Tim Herman. These events sparked joy and inspired a lasting passion for tennis among participants.
Net Gain CIC’s dedication, innovative approach, and commitment to inclusivity are truly remarkable. Their work exemplifies how tennis can transform lives and create lasting opportunities for children from all backgrounds.
Kent Leader in Girls Tennis
Net Gain CIC is proud to deliver the exceptional Prime Video Girls-Only Tennis Sessions, a pioneering initiative designed to enhance girls’ participation in tennis. The sessions attracted 45 girls in the introductory phase, representing 18% of total sign-ups across Kent. Of these, 39 participants progressed to the follow-on course, reflecting an impressive 86% conversion rate, with 12 girls transitioning into the main programme via Direct Debit, achieving a 30% conversion rate.
The programme catered to three specific age groups—4-8, 9-11, and 12-16—with each £35 session package including a racket, T-shirt, and tennis balls. The focus was on fostering enjoyment, skill development, and a genuine passion for tennis. To ensure long-term engagement, free club memberships were provided to participants who joined via Direct Debit, along with complimentary holiday camp slots during school breaks. The programme also offered a discounted initial month of Direct Debit at £14.75, which subsequently increased to £29.50. Girls-only tennis has now become a core programme, with regular sessions held every Wednesday.
The initiative has strengthened connections with local schools and communities while expanding its reach to Herne Bay, Margate, and Broadstairs. It has been widely praised by parents, community committees, and local media, even earning a feature in a notable press article. This initiative has redefined community sports programming, demonstrating how targeted efforts can drive sustained engagement. Net Gain CIC’s dedication to inclusivity and innovation has created a lasting legacy, inspiring countless girls to embrace tennis.