Graham Webster – 10yrs as Chairman
Graham’s tireless dedication, inclusion leadership, and innovative vision have transformed our club into a thriving, welcoming community for tennis.
As Chairman, Graham has gone far beyond the expectations of a volunteer leader. He has dedicated the last ten years to the running of the club, ensuring that we now have 7 artificial clay courts with LED lights costing over £500K. As a result, this has increased participation. All members have benefited with courts that are safe to play on in all weather and increased courts availability outside daylight hours for all member categories.
Consequently, his work has been central to the
continued growth of the club, particularly during
challenging times. Notably, during his
Chairmanship he has steered the club through
the financial difficulties caused by Covid
closures. From applying for grants and managing
finances to supporting coaches and organizing
tournaments, he has carried the weight of
responsibility with professionalism and passion.
His leadership is steady, thoughtful, and always
focused on what is best for the members. The
club’s success today is a direct result of his
vision and commitment.
A hallmark of Graham’s tenure is his strong
commitment to inclusion. He has worked
tirelessly to make tennis accessible to all.
Recognizing the importance of diversity, he has
championed initiatives to attract players of all
ages, abilities, and backgrounds. This is
particularly evident with our committee which
consists of members from diverse ages, genders,
ethnicities and tennis abilities. He ensures that
tennis is promoted as a sport for everyone, not
just for a select few. The impact of this work is
visible on our courts, which are now filled with
players of different cultures, abilities, and
generations playing side by
side.
Equally inspiring has been his progressive
thinking to grow participation and build
community spirit. He works with team captains to
organise match practice for team players. He
supports teams from the national league in top
division in GB to 8th team in local league. He
creates provision for teams to flourish and
achieve success. This year winning Premier 1
SW doubles league in both men and ladies’
categories. Moreover, Graham has removed
barriers for diverse players to become part of our
club community. As a city centre facility, we have
a varied membership. He champions the forging
of a diverse, inclusive culture. This is exemplified
in the organisation structure of our Friday Social
Mix-in. This year alone, he has been instrumental
in the welcome introduction of sixty-one new
members.
Through his exceptional service and inclusive
approach, Graham has advanced tennis within
our club and demonstrates what steady
leadership can achieve. His work has touched
lives, built confidence, and fostered a genuine
sense of belonging.
Graham was shortlisted for Volunteer of the year at the Tennis Wales Award 2026.
