FEMALE tennis participation at grassroots level is on the radar of an award-winning local coach as a girls only Hot Shots program is launched at Redland Bay.
Tim Low is heading up the program and has enlisted the help of Melbourne Victory W-League player Amy Jackson and 16-year-old local tennis prodigy Lara Walker.
Low said the program would be held every Thursday night during the trial phase and was open to girls aged seven to 13.
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"We have found girls often do not feel comfortable playing matches against much younger boys," he said.
"Factors such as differing skill levels or games being too competitive can impact the enjoyment and contribute to girls dropping out of tennis and sport in general."
Low said his aim was to create a fun and friendly environment to help girls begin playing matches without any pressure.
"It is based around empowering girls to show them that they can actually do it," he said.
"We have brought on board two female athletes to assist with that."
The Hot Shots program is run nationwide and gives kids the chance to try out the sport using modified rules and equipment, such as lighter rackets and low bouncing balls.
The girls only program at Redland Bay started last Thursday. Registrations can be made by calling Redland Bay Tennis Club on 3829 1383.
Read more local sport news here.
