Reigate Priory Lawn Tennis Club Meet the Members Series: Lee and Luke 

We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Lee to chat about his experience at the club and that of his 11-year-old son Luke. Lee, a player on the club men’s team, and Luke, an accomplished junior player, share their tennis journey, experiences at the club, and future aspirations.

Lee, tell us how long you and Luke have been members of Reigate Priory Lawn Tennis Club?

We've been members for about three years now. I was playing at another local club but found Priory was a better fit for me, both in terms of the quality of the tennis and the welcome I got from the men’s team.

What initially drew you both to join our tennis club?

The club's beautiful setting and welcoming community were major factors. 

Can you share a bit about your own tennis journey? When did you start playing, and what keeps you passionate about the game?

I played squash for Kent as a junior competing in tournaments at home and abroad. Some of my team mates went on to be full time professionals and were ranked in the world top 20. I therefore have some understanding of what it's like to be involved in competitive sport.

I played some tennis as a junior but played more in my twenties. I was club champion at Woldingham LTC and played in the Surrey and Weald leagues.

How do you balance your time between your own practice and supporting Luke in his tennis activities?

It’s not very balanced at the moment! I’m mostly at the club with Luke, helping him with his game. But, we both enjoy joining in the club social session on a Tuesday. Along with Luke, my two younger children are also enthusiastic about tennis. We all try to come down and have a hit together or they come along to the Friday Junior Nights in the summer and have a fun hit with lots of other children from the club.

When did Luke start playing tennis, and what do you think sparked his interest in the sport?

Initially Luke started playing tennis in the garden with myself at age 5. We then joined Reigate Priory LTC where he joined group lessons with Russell at age 7. He was also playing a good level of football for Reigate FC and I could see his competitive nature. At age 9 he played in the club junior tournament and lost in the final. This sparked his interest and I could see he had tennis ability so we dropped away from football and have put our efforts into tennis ever since. 

How has Luke's experience been at Reigate Priory Lawn Tennis Club as an accomplished junior player?

Luke's experience has been great. The coaches are excellent, and the junior programme has provided him with opportunities to compete and improve his skills. He loves being part of the club.

What are some of Luke's proudest moments or achievements in tennis so far?

Winning the junior league division and going through to the knockout with his RPLTC team mates was a proud moment for Luke and for the club. Luke also competes in LTA tournaments and recently competed in the Play Your Way to Wimbledon finals.

How has the club supported Luke's development and growth as a junior player?

The club is very supportive of family tennis and of junior tennis specifically, offering regular training sessions and opportunities to compete in league matches and club tournaments. The positive environment has been significant for his development.

What are Luke's future goals in tennis, and how do you support him in reaching those goals?

Luke's future goals in tennis revolve around competing at higher levels, with a significant aim to be selected as part of the Surrey County Cup team. To support Luke in reaching his goals, I hit with him and I also help him to find other players of similar or higher levels for him to hit with at the club. He also plays around 1 tournament a month so that he gets experience in higher pressure situations.

What are your future goals in tennis?

I think it would be great to win the RPLTC men’s doubles club championship with Luke!

Can you describe a typical week for you and Luke at the club?

We typically train together 3 times a week at the club and he also takes part in junior match practice session. Weekends often involve league matches for the club, LTA tournaments or practice games. We also enjoy socialising with other club members, playing at one of the weekly adult social sessions. Luke really enjoys the junior match practice on a Wednesday night and hitting with other junior players at the club. Sometimes I make it for the men’s team match practice session which always provides a high level of tennis practice.

Have you participated in any club tournaments or events together? If so, can you share your experiences?

Yes we competed in the men's doubles and doubles handicap last year and we are competing again this year. Sadly I let the side down last year with some dreadful serving which Luke continually reminds me of. Hopefully I can redeem myself in this year's tournament otherwise I won't hear the end of it as he always tells the rest of our family about how badly I played!

Are there any specific programs or initiatives at the club that you’re particularly excited about?

We always look forward to the club tournaments, they're fun but also give you a chance to test your tennis development. We are also looking forward to the clubhouse transformation, which will enhance our club experience.

What do you think sets Reigate Priory Lawn Tennis Club apart from other clubs?

The club's welcoming atmosphere and the strong sense of community make it stand out. The supportive environment has been instrumental in our tennis journey. It's a mix of players of all levels who share a common passion for tennis. The sense of belonging and encouragement from fellow members is fantastic.

What  a great example of how family tennis can lead to life long memories made and a real enjoyment of sport. Thank you for your time Lee, wishing you and Luke continued tennis success.

We really enjoy learning about our club members' tennis experiences and cheering their development and success. If you are willing to share your own tennis story please email info@rpltc.co.uk, we would love to hear from you.