Racket sports in Kaitaia are linked together under the one roof of the Kaitaia Tennis and Squash Club. Working with Sport Northland Community Sport Advisor Lesley Wallace, the club recognised that while adult numbers continued to be relatively stable, investment in the future was needed and focus was placed on recruiting junior members. Accessing national junior programmes such as 'grasshoppers' tennis provided coaching support for adult club members and the specialised equipment needed to run the programme.

Junior tennis is now booming at the Kaitaia Tennis and Squash Club as up to 60 youngsters took part in the club's junior tennis programme over the summer.

The club provided qualified coaches, modified equipment and a structured coaching programme while the children just enjoyed every minute of learning and having fun.

The club also provides a junior squash programme with senior club members providing coaching. The club partners with the Kaitaia College to provide squash as part of their curriculum learning in Physical Education. 

“The leadership opportunity provided to the College students by the club is a valuable component of their education and of course the young people and the club benefit from the use of the facility at non peak times and a new sport can be learned and tried by new kids.” commented Lesley

Photo:  Junior tennis coaching programme in action.