On Friday, June 21st, FCN Founder Vicky Huyton had the privilege of meeting with key figures from the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), including Johnathon Hughes, the Regional Delivery Director at LTA. The event, held at the Birmingham Classic, was a significant occasion for celebrating women’s tennis and fostering discussions about the visibility and representation of women in tennis workforces.
The day brought together leaders and influencers from various sectors, all united by a common goal: enhancing the presence and influence of women in the sport. Among the notable attendees were Professor Leanne Norman, a leading figure in sports leadership, and Baz Moffat, CEO and Co-Founder of the Well HQ. Their presence underscored the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration in addressing gender disparities in sports.
The discussions at the event were both insightful and inspiring, centering around several critical issues impacting women in tennis. Key topics included the significance of the working environment, the coach qualification process, club values and traditions, player expectations, and the overarching cultures of National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and clubs. These factors collectively shape who and what is valued within the tennis workforce, highlighting the need for systemic change to foster inclusivity and equity.
One of the pivotal discussions revolved around the working environment in tennis. Creating a supportive and inclusive environment is essential for attracting and retaining women in various roles within the sport. This includes not only players but also coaches, administrators, and other key stakeholders. By fostering a culture that values diversity and inclusion, the tennis community can ensure that women feel welcome and valued at every level.
The coach qualification process was another significant area of focus. Ensuring that the pathway to becoming a qualified coach is accessible and supportive for women is crucial for increasing their representation in coaching roles. This involves reviewing and potentially revising existing qualification frameworks to address any barriers that may disproportionately affect women.
Club values and traditions also play a vital role in shaping the tennis workforce. Many clubs have long-standing traditions and values that may inadvertently exclude or marginalize women. By reassessing and updating these traditions to be more inclusive, clubs can create a more welcoming environment for women and other underrepresented groups.
Player expectations and the cultures of NGBs and clubs were also discussed in depth. The expectations placed on players, both on and off the court, can significantly impact their experiences and career trajectories. Ensuring that these expectations are fair and equitable is essential for supporting women in tennis. Additionally, the broader cultures of NGBs and clubs must be examined and evolved to prioritize inclusivity and equity.
The event was a testament to the LTA’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and representative tennis community. The collaborative spirit of the day, featuring contributions from Women in Sport and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, highlighted the collective effort required to drive meaningful change.
In conclusion, the Birmingham Classic event was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate women in tennis and engage in critical discussions about the future of the sport. By addressing the key issues of working environments, coach qualifications, club values, player expectations, and organizational cultures, the tennis community can work towards a more inclusive and equitable future. Special thanks to the LTA for hosting such a significant and impactful day, and to all the attendees who contributed to the vibrant and productive discussions.