Hampshire & IOW Tennis (HIOWT) has launched a new scheme to support and mentor coaches who wish to become future leaders 

Tennis coaching is a wonderful profession, not least because it is part of a continually evolving and developing sport and industry. The most successful coaches and leaders are the ones who understand the value of continual personal development, and of collaboration. The ASPIRE programme is for a community of coaches in Hampshire & IOW who are keen to become the future leaders of our sport, for instance, Head Coaches, managers, County Captains, and more. The scheme allows them to develop their coaching skills and to gain a deeper understanding of the wider tennis industry, regardless of the tennis environment they are currently involved with. We hope to attract a diverse mix of coaches, all bringing a mix of tennis and coaching experience to the group.

Basic overview of ASPIRE

• open to all coaches, with at least a Level 2 coaching qualification and ideally a desire to complete further qualifications
• open to part- and full-time coaches, employed or self-employed
• maximum 8 spaces per cohort (i.e. per year)
• a community of coaches who aspire to become future leaders and to inspire the next generation of players and coaches
• mentoring and support provided by Hampshire & IOW Tennis (HIOWT)
• access to “money can’t buy experiences”
• all funding is provided by HIOWT as part of its charitable strategic objectives

How will it work?

• coaches will attend a series of webinars, meetings and workshops, both face-to-face and online
• expert speakers will provide insight on a variety of relevant topics
• applications for the first cohort will close on 31st October 2025
• the first cohort will commence in January 2026
• support will be provided beyond the initial programme content, i.e. in future years, it is hoped that past cohorts continue to meet up, and that they offer mentoring to future cohorts

Learning opportunities, including workshops, visits and training

• county training
• 10 & under standards awareness
• introduction to padel
• regional performance
• venue / programme visits
• specific on-court developmental sessions, e.g. footwork, tactical development, doubles
• modules on the “business of tennis”, e.g. time management, accounts for self employment
• officiating
• stringing
• mentoring and support – observe live coaching session and feedback
• inclusive and accessible tennis opportunities
• schools outreach
• tour of the National Tennis Centre
• social media/ branding

How do I apply?

We welcome applications from any coach with at least a Level 2 tennis coaching qualification. The form to apply is as follows: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/7RkP2r4PpL

You will also need to provide a supporting letter from your employer, head coach or mentor. Please send to info@hampshireiow.tennis, once you have completed the form.