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Award winner, Tom Brown Interview

Writer's picture: Cheshire TennisCheshire Tennis

As time for nominations for this year’s Cheshire LTA draws near (last chance on 16th November), Cheshire Tennis thought we’d go back to last year and talk to Tom Brown. Tom won “Official of the Year” last year, and then went on to win the regional and then the national award. 


Tell us about the journey from being nominated to winning the national award.

From the initial nomination, little did we know that we'd have a few great weeks ahead of us. Starting at the CCLTA annual award event at Chester racecourse, we were then invited to a regional awards event at Ilkley LTC during the week of the Challenger event (where I was already working as an umpire) and finally onto Wimbledon during the first week of the Championships where we were very much looked after. It really added to a great summer.


Why do you feel it is important for clubs to nominate people from their club?

It's really important for people to take advantage of the nomination process for the LTA awards. There are many people out there who put in so much effort and have done so for such a time that it can just become the 'norm'. These people should really be celebrated and awarded for all that they do. A little recognition can go a long way!


What do you enjoy about being a tennis official?

There are certainly many things to enjoy about officiating, meeting people along the way, travel etc but I think one thing that really stands out is that no two days are ever the same. No matter what role you're in, you're always in an environment where there is the possibility to learn something new or to face new challenges and you're better prepared for the next time you face such circumstances.


Would you encourage others to get involved? And if so how would they do that?

I'd absolutely recommend anyone to sign up if they are interested. There are many different roles out there from control desk to chair umpire, and positions can be fairly flexible in terms of how much time you spend at a tournament, whether it's just 10 days a year or 100+! It's a great opportunity to learn new skills or to bring your own previous skill set to the world of tennis. It's something I am very grateful for being given the opportunity to do.


Anything else you’d like to mention?

I'd really just urge anyone to take a look at the awards categories and nominate if they can, whether it's a competition they're involved in, a brilliant coach or a lifelong club volunteer! It only takes about 5 minutes to do and can absolutely make someone's day.


If you would like to make a nomination for this year's awards then please visit the link below.  As mentioned you have until 16th November!







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