Tennis players of all ages at Woodbridge Tennis ClubWoodbridge Tennis Club and Kesgrave Tennis Club are to hold their annual Dick McDonald Memorial Tournament on Saturday 15th June at Kesgrave Tennis Club to commemorate the former coach and tennis player who passed away in 2016.

Dick was a hugely popular tennis coach at both Woodbridge Tennis Club, training the club’s Deben Juniors for several years, and nearby Kesgrave Tennis Club. He was also involved in short tennis at Farlingaye High School and was made the Head Coach at Kesgrave where he arranged the coaching programme and ran outdoor and short tennis sessions.

As a member of both clubs he played in the Mens and Mixed teams. In 2010, he was awarded the Suffolk Coastal Lifetime Achievement Award for services to tennis.

Dick MacDonaldDick’s widow, Jill McDonald, said, “Dick was originally an engineer but was always a keen sportsman playing football, cricket and tennis, which eventually became his passion, especially teaching youngsters which gave him great enjoyment.”

She added, “He passed away in August 2016, but even when he was in hospital he was trying to get the nurses to take up tennis.”

Players from both clubs will join members of Dick’s family to take part in the tournament, which will be an informal and fun competition along with tea and cakes.

Woodbridge Tennis Club Chairman Steve Lemon, said, “We want to remember Dick’s commitment and enthusiasm for tennis and the support he gave to both clubs during his lifetime. Dick was passionate about the sport and nurturing younger players.”

The clubs are hoping that as many of Dick’s friends as possible come along to enjoy two hours of tennis and socialising from 2pm until 4pm at Kesgrave Tennis Club.

The first 12 players from each club to register will be able to compete in timed doubles matches. If there are spare places available they can be filled by players from each club. If you’d like to take part in the tournament you must register a place by contacting Martin Denny on kesgravetennisclub@gmail.com or madautoparts@gmail.com or call 07702 559412.