Tennis club growing nicely

The first of a series of assessment and coaching sessions at Kilcullen Tennis Club for young players was very successful last Saturday, writes Brian Byrne. They will be continued on coming Saturdays and will result in the development of an autumn coaching programme for youngsters.

The reformed club officially got under way earlier in the summer, and the membership already stands at over 100, according to the prime mover in the project, Eamonn O'Toole.

Both hard courts are now fully refurbished and painted, and high fencing as well as sound deflecting material has also been installed.

Earlier this year Kilcullen Development Association — which supported the formation of the original Tennis Club in the same location back in the 1950s — provided a terms-free loan of €24,000 to get things moving. A number of local businesses have pledged sponsorship amounting to several thousands of euro, and a development plan is in train to add two more courts, and a sheltered viewing area. It is also planned to install lighting.

Now that the club is officially open application can be made for further funding from organisations like Tennis Ireland and the Sports Council.