Knaresborough tennis club to host open day

A Knaresborough tennis club is having an open day event this weekend.

Knaresborough King James’ Tennis Club is set to have open courts on Sunday, April 7, from midday to 4pm in the grounds of King James’ School.

The club was formed in 2011 as a collaboration between Knaresborough Tennis Club and King James’ School.

Club Chair Mike Forster said:

“Knaresborough is a close community and yet we attract members from a much wider area thanks to the welcome they receive – plus of course the chance to play socially and competitively and take part in our annual John Forster Tournament. Not to mention professional coaching.

“Our commitment to a friendly but competitive environment is evident from the Fair Play Award and social sessions are consistently well-attended by players of all ages. If you fancy a change of scenery or are picking up your racket again after a break, however rusty you are do come and join us this Sunday. You might just find yourself part of a winning team.”

The club has over 90 members ranging from students to retirees and offers social tennis sessions three times a week.

King James’ is the only Knaresborough club with Starbeck as their closest tennis club, which it competes with in the local derby.

The club has seven porous macadam courts and has regular club and match play. It had a triple success last year when Its mixed, men’s and ladies’ teams all won division 3 of their respective Harrogate and York Leagues. The trophies will be displayed at the Open Day.

The ladies’ squad was also awarded the first ever Fair Play Award from the Fulford Ladies’ Invitation Tennis League.

A just for fun tournament will be held in the afternoon and there is no need to bring a partner. Refreshments will be provided, and visitors can meet club members.

Read more:

First tennis tournament held in memory of Knaresborough headteacher

A tennis tournament created in memory of a Knaresborough headteacher was held for the first time this week.

Knaresborough King James Tennis Club hosted the tournament following the death of John Forster at the age of 85.

Mr Forster, who was headteacher at King James’s School for 16 years, had a passion for tennis and championed the sport to the point where the school’s teams reached national and regional finals.

He was also a founding member of Knaresborough Tennis Club.

The very first John Forster tournament was organised by John’s son Mike Forster.

On setting up the tournament, Mike said:

“Dad loved his sport, being a devoted runner, tennis player and Leeds United fan.

“His contribution to KKJTC over the years is incalculable and I’m absolutely thrilled that the club decided to create this tournament in his memory.”

Read More:

Although very close-fought, the inaugural event was won by Andy Little and Jeanette Bowden, stalwarts of KKJTC’s mixed teams competing in the Harrogate District Tennis League.

Mike added:

“It was without doubt the best turnout we’ve ever had for a club tournament with dozens of participants, so I’d like to thank everyone who took part for a fitting tribute to Dad. He would have been competing if he could.

“He was always passionate about getting people involved in sport, especially pupils from local schools, and he would have been very pleased to know that the tournament will be contested every year now.

“We are proud that our club reflects my dad’s principles of being friendly and welcoming to all standards of player, so if anyone would like to join us, do please get in touch.”