Staffordshire Lawn Tennis Association, the body responsible for promoting tennis across the county, has launched a partnership with the University’s sports science team to support the performance of players from both its junior and senior squads.
Students and staff from across sports science courses will routinely assess players of all ages from the county teams to support not just physical performance, but also help reduce the risk of injuries. From an initial assessment identifying movement, strength and mobility, the team will direct players on how to improve their fitness levels, plan for life changes such as adolescence and ageing, and reduce the likelihood of injury.
The partnership is a win-win for all. University staff will have a large group of performance players across all age groups to assess as part of their ongoing studies, while participants can learn from the best local sports science specialists. The partnership is especially important for junior players which apart from the physical challenges of playing, are having to cope with a changing body during adolescence.
The first cohort attended the University’s Leek Road Campus, Stoke-on-Trent during the Easter holidays. The Under 14 county squad was put through its paces with tests on reactions, flexibility, speed and endurance. The data will be analysed with parents and players getting information on areas where the improvements can be made. Then in three months’ time further tests will be done before another set. The aim is to support and guide players alongside their matches and tournaments schedule.
Dr Alex Blackett, Head of Department for Sport and Sciences at University of Staffordshire, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome such an eager group of young players to our facilities. Our team really put them through their paces, but throughout every smiled and even though there were lots of red faces, everyone had a lot of fun.
“But there is a serious side to the work we are doing. We hope to help these players fulfil their potential. Like in all sports, fitness is key. Understanding what they are good at is important, realising their weaknesses and working to improve could be the difference between winning and losing.”
Graham Cole, Chair Staffordshire LTA, said: “This is a wonderful initiative which will be of a huge benefit to many players. For the younger players, we hope the information gained will help their parents to guide them on their journeys. For the older players, we hope it will extend their playing careers.
“Even though we are a relatively small tennis playing county, we punch above our weight with many players chosen to represent Great Britain over the years. Indeed, the 2023 winner of Junior Wimbledon, Henry Seale is from Staffordshire, and we hope to support the next champion with the support of the University.”