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Meet the Coach - Ian Gillespie

Role at Oswestry School
Tennis Coach 

What is your aim for tennis at School?
I currently come into the school every Friday afternoon to deliver a very successful tennis programme to pupils from Bellan and Senior School. I want to offer opportunities to pupils, and family members, to access tennis and develop their skills and to enjoy the sport. As a highly experienced coach who has mentored and coached people at county and national level, I am keen to offer the chance for pupils to train and prepare for competitive events. I am extremely passionate about tennis and my goal is to have more pupils playing and enjoying the sport with the aim of entering more competitive competitions such as Division 1 Level.

Why is tennis such a worldwide popular sport? 
I think it is due to its nature, and the fact that it is played globally. Tennis is an all year round sport here in the UK with some fantastic indoor facilities to accommodate unpredictable weather and it attracts support due to its exciting and emotional nature. It is a sport that is admired by many and certainly Wimbledon, as a spectacle, brings many fans to sport. 

What is your sporting background? 
As well as being a tennis player and coach, I have also played cricket at Minor County Level. My tennis is my passion and I have played at International Events and also collected trophies at this level - a big achievement. Leadership has always been an important and enjoyable aspect in my sporting career. My playing career and coaching has benefitted from this as I am now responsible for the creation and growing of HighFive Tennis, who provide good quality coaching sessions to various clubs and schools around the area. HighFive link schools and clubs together to arrange regular sessions and tournaments for juniors and adults to enjoy.

What do you enjoy most about Tennis? 
Enjoyment is a massive aspect of every sport especially when it comes to going from playing to coaching. The most enjoyable part of tennis for me is how effective and educational the sport is. The skills experienced and practiced are very broad with individual and team elements attached. It is one of the few recreational sports where all family members can participate together on a court and thoroughly enjoy playing together. It doesn't matter how old you are, or your ability, a game can take place very easily.

Who is your sporting role model? 
Roger Federer 

What is your best sporting moment in History?
Travelling over to Gent in Belgium to watch Andy Murray win the Davis cup for Great Britain. This was an epic live event to be part of.

What is the achievement you are most proud of? 
Leading our county men's tennis teams up into national divisions regularly and consistently. Currently it's our seniors team!

Favourite thing to do in your spare time? 
Travel abroad with family and play golf.

What is your guilty pleasure? 
I have a sweet tooth for Dark Chocolate!