Volunteer opportunities for young people
Getting involved as a tennis volunteer can bring great rewards – it develops employability, can support your playing, help with your Duke of Edinburgh Award and lead to a long-term career in sport.
The LTA has a young volunteers pathway, which links into our coaching and participation pathways.
Pathway for young volunteers
The Tennis Leaders course is available for any education institution to run for anyone from the age of 13 to 17 and is widely available in further education colleges. From the age of 16, young people can undertake the Level 1 coaching course and/or an umpire course. In addition to volunteering opportunities at tennis venues, there is a chance to become a Student Tennis Ambassador in further education colleges. Certain universities also offer positions as a Student Tennis Ambassador and paid positions as a University Tennis Co-ordinator.
Places to volunteer
There are various opportunities to get real-life experience volunteering in tennis venues such as schools, parks and clubs. Through your school, college or university, you will be able to find clear guidance and links into a regular volunteering placement. Alternatively, you can find a local opportunity by visiting volunteer charity the Do-It Trust, which lists local opportunities.
Volunteering can continue to develop your life and professional skills, while helping more young people to play tennis. It’s important to note that if you’re under 16 you can help out on an activity and once you’re over 16, you can start leading activities under the supervision of a qualified coach, teacher or lecturer.
Looking for a safe volunteer venue
It is recommended that you look for a tennis venue that is LTA Registered. If you’re volunteering at the club, try working in a number of different roles – spend time with the coach, secretary, treasurer and club captains for example. Have regular check-ins with the Welfare Officer too.
British Tennis Youth Group
For the enthusiastic and dedicated young volunteers, there is an opportunity to apply to be on the British Tennis Youth Group. This is a diverse group of 12 young people, aged 18 to 25. It aims to encourage the LTA to proactively engage and involve young people in tennis more effectively. This year they have worked as ambassadors on local tennis projects, helped deliver a Student Tennis Conference and managed a new Youth Legacy Fund to provide grants to local projects. The post is for 2 years with the next round of recruitment opening in mid 2016. To apply, please visit Jobs at the LTA.
Young volunteer award
The LTA Tennis Awards launched in September 2015 to recognise and reward the people and places behind our sport.