By Will Castle, Sportsbeat 

Liverpool Tennis Centre have acted as a vehicle for change by championing inclusivity in sport, making them worthy recipients of the LTA’s Tennis For All award.  

The annual LTA Tennis Awards, presented by Lexus, highlight and celebrate the incredible achievements and contributions of people in tennis across Britain.  

Held at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton, Laura and David Hardman were elated to be recognised for their contributions to their community, presented the award by British wheelchair tennis star Louise Hunt Skelley.   

And after beating such stiff competition for the prize, with Hinckley Town Tennis Club and Pride In Tennis helping make up the final three, they cannot wait to spread the word around town.  

“I'm shocked,” David said. “I was listening to the other nominees and I was like, ‘okay, it was nice to be here’.  

“Then Louise just started reading ‘Liverpool’ and I was like, ‘oh it's us’, so I’m shocked but really, really happy. Can't wait to let everybody back home know.”  

First launched in 2015 with the help of former LTA president Cathie Sabin OBE, the LTA Awards recognise the vital work of volunteers, coaches, officials, and players dedicating their precious time and energy to the continual development and growth of the sport.  

Over the past nine years, the awards have illustrated the depth of service and talent within the tennis community and serve as an inspiration to others to get involved in the game.  

For Liverpool Tennis Centre, inclusivity and accessibility within the sport has been paramount, opening as many eyes as they can to the joys of tennis, regardless of background.  

Based in one of the most socially deprived areas in the city, Wavertree, David and Laura both feel that tennis has inspired many locals to achieve better things.  

David said: “It's very rewarding for us as a venue, just to see the different marginalised groups that walk through the door and use tennis as the vehicle to not only to socialise, but be active and enjoy themselves. It's a real sociable atmosphere.”   

“I think we cover both very well,” Laura added. “Where we are situated is probably one of the most socially deprived areas in the city, so the fact that we can not only provide social activity, but we can also provide progression for each player.  

“We do actually have players who want to go on and get better and compete. We provide those opportunities regardless of their socio economic background.”  

LTA President Sandi Procter said: “The ceremony has been a tremendous celebration of the people that make our sport so special.   

“The incredible stories behind the finalists are so heart-warming to hear. The hard work and dedication of all the winners and runners-up too is unbelievable, and I am always so impressed by the selfless sacrifice of all the volunteers, officials, and coaches.   

“I have always been passionate about the grassroots and the awards are our way of highlighting the extraordinary contribution of the individuals and venues that help us open tennis up bringing new players and fans to the game.’’ 

The annual LTA Tennis Awards, presented by Lexus.