Happy New Year!
It has been difficult to come up with good news in 2022, which with the benefit of hindsight has been chaotic, un-nerving, confusing and terrifying for so many.
The muddle and political uncertainty in the UK has resulted in some unwished for consequences which, as usual, will see the British public poorer but determined to find a way back to prosperity and stability.
For me, there have been a host of exciting and wonderful events, all about family; an astonishing wedding in the US combined with nearly a month of vacation, another grandson, and visits to new family homes in coastal locations, plus a good year on court with players of all ages and abilities.
My new website has an inclusive title, which allows me to enter the world of Pickleball !
The most common question asked? - What’s Pickleball??
Well….we can play indoors, on Badminton courts, and all ages, experience and abilities welcome…what’s not to like ! Fun, fast and a good work-out too - in a word inclusive. My thanks to Toby Bawden, for his generous support and help in setting me up with Dropshot paddles, and a group of enthusiastic players are looking forward to the weekly sessions at Bloxham in 2023.
What news about Tennis?…….still my favourite.
Surely the best year for Women’s Tennis ever, with Iga proving almost unbeatable; calm, composed, astute, accurate and now getting to grips with her new racket! Tecnifibre have a fine range of 26.5” Tempo rackets especially designed for women, with head size designed to allow control and power for players from Junior Beginners to Adult Advanced.
This choice allows each player to fine tune the racket to their level of skill and experience; many players struggle with smaller head size and unsuitable frame weight, which results in poor technique and inconsistent play. Plus there is the issue of cost, so Tecnifibre offer players good quality product at under £100, weights from 250g and head size up to 105Sq”.
In Men’s Tennis there is finally a sign that the Next-Gen are finding their feet, although Novak is still looking solid - mostly. My only observation is that, as in so many sports it feels as if too much competition will soon start to tell on the top players; endurance seems to be the main ingredient, and the ability to survive endless travel, training and time zone shock may prove difficult for many.
Meanwhile back here in the real world, for male players looking for new levels of performance I still recommend the Babolat Pure range; my Pure Drive is still the best racket I have found - please ask if you want to try a demo racket!
Wishing everyone a fulfilling, but exciting new 2023 !