Infinity Tennis collaborate with Pride in Tennis

As someone from the queer community, the nominator expresses immense pride in recognising Gavid and Infinity Tennis for their outstanding efforts in fostering inclusivity and accessibility in tennis for LGBTQ+ individuals. Finding spaces that offer genuine warmth and support can be challenging, but Gavid has succeeded in creating something truly remarkable.

Among the most impactful initiatives are the LGBTQ+ social tennis sessions held at Spencer Square on Sunday afternoons. These sessions are designed to be affordable—just £4 after an initial free session—and cater to beginners, with free coaching available to help newcomers feel at ease. Since their inception, the sessions have attracted over 50 participants, many of whom return weekly to enjoy a supportive and welcoming community. These gatherings have become much more than just tennis; they are a space for connection, joy, and authenticity.

Infinity Tennis’s commitment extends far beyond the court. They organised a Pride in Tennis course that included members of the queer community and young coaches, fostering an understanding of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, including barriers to inclusion, mental health issues, and health inequalities. It is particularly inspiring to see a straight ally like Gavid not only listening but actively learning and driving meaningful change.

Practical steps have further cemented Infinity Tennis’s dedication. All partner venues have been registered with the Pride in Tennis Allies Programme, ensuring LGBTQ+ players feel safe and welcomed. Additionally, they have submitted a funding bid to KCC to support coaching qualifications for queer individuals, opening up pathways for representation within the sport.

What Gavid and Infinity Tennis have achieved is extraordinary. They have created a space where the queer community can truly flourish, both on and off the court, and their efforts richly deserve this recognition.