Parks tennis in Sheffield has undergone a major transformation over the last few years and a familiar local face will be charged with the task of making the new programme a success. Jess Redfearn, a well-known figure in Sheffield tennis, will be taking on the role of Parks Tennis Manager in June and will be tasked with continuing the regeneration of tennis in the city’s parks.

Sheffield City Council has recently agreed a long term deal with Parks Tennis CIC to manage tennis in Sheffield’s parks, following an 18 month pilot programme that has seen in excess of 18,000 online court bookings by over 2,000 unique customers. There has also been around a quarter of a million pounds invested in refurbishing 22 courts across Sheffield over the last 2 years.

Jess will move into the role from her current position with Sheffield Hallam University. She had previously worked for the Lawn Tennis Association in the North regional office. Jess is heavily involved in tennis at local level and is the Website Co-ordinator and Press Officer for the Sheffield & District LTA, as well as being a South Yorkshire Councillor for Yorkshire LTA. She plays for Fulwood LTC in the Sheffield & District league and is also the assistant coach at the club.

Jess commented on her new role “I’m absolutely delighted to be coming back to work in tennis in Sheffield. I’m really passionate about the sport and the opportunity to be part of the new era of parks tennis in Sheffield is something I couldn’t refuse”.

“So many people’s first taste of tennis is in a park setting and my job will be to ensure that they have a really positive experience and want to keep playing our great sport. Sheffield is at the forefront of regenerating parks tennis and I will be working hard to deliver great tennis programmes and ensure that the courts are full”.

The parks tennis programme recently went live at 9 sites across Sheffield and coaching sessions will be taking place at most of the venues. The grass court season will soon be commencing in this country following the French Open and this traditionally sees a surge in interest in tennis as the sport appears on our television screens.

For more information on Sheffield Parks Tennis visit www.tennissheffield.com