A new £1 million initiative has been launched to expand tennis participation among schoolchildren across Scotland, offering free access to the sport in educational institutions. This effort is part of a broader vision to establish a nationally significant tennis hub. The move follows the cancellation of a previous £20 million community sports facility project due to planning difficulties and rising costs. The current campaign seeks to build on recent growth in tennis engagement, inspired by top Scottish athletes like Andy Murray and his peers. The funding will support teacher training, equipment, and coaching access through the LTA Youth Schools program, aiming to double its reach in Scottish schools.

New Funding Drives Youth Tennis Expansion Across Scottish Schools

In a major push to boost youth engagement with tennis, Scottish authorities have announced a fresh £1 million investment aimed at introducing the sport to every child in the country’s schools at no cost. Spearheaded by key national sporting bodies including Tennis Scotland, the Lawn Tennis Association, and supported by the Scottish Government, this initiative reflects growing momentum in tennis participation across the region. Blane Dodds, CEO of Tennis Scotland, emphasized that the funding would allow young people to experience tennis firsthand, building on the success of Scottish players like Andy Murray, Jamie Murray, and others who have made their mark globally. With 280,000 children already playing regularly—40% of whom are girls—and nearly half of those who haven’t tried the sport expressing interest, the timing appears ideal for expansion. The initiative also aligns with broader UK trends showing a 6% increase in tennis participation among children aged 4–15 over the past year.

This strategic investment comes as a response to shifting public interest and builds upon previously unrealized ambitions such as the proposed Park of Keir multi-sport center, which was halted last year due to logistical and environmental concerns. While plans for a centralized national tennis facility remain under discussion, the focus now is on grassroots development, ensuring accessibility and long-term sustainability. By equipping schools with resources, certified instruction, and structured programs like LTA Youth Schools, organizers aim to cultivate future talent and maintain Scotland’s rising profile in international tennis.