University of the Year, LTA awards nomination

Kent Sport is excited to announce that the Kent Indoor Tennis and Events Arena (KITEA) has been nominated for the University of the Year Lawn and Tennis Association (LTA) Awards. Each year the LTA award a selection of clubs, schools, universities, and individuals for their impressive achievements throughout the year.

2022 saw the University of East London take home the accolade for University of the year, something which the University of Kent is keen to rival. In addition, Tennis President, Sophie Kitson has also been nominated for the Rising Star award, after having served as a line umpire at Wimbledon in 2022 and successfully completing her chair umpire course in autumn last year.

With the awards dinner and regional voting taking place on 11 February 2023, the University of Kent is in a brilliant position to progress through Regionals in April and onto Nationals, which will be announced in May 2023.

This last year has seen the appointment of Tennis Development Manager, Nick Skelton, who has supported President, Sophie Kitson in the development of a comprehensive tennis programme aimed at all levels of player, from beginner to experienced. Including coaching teams’ tennis, development squad tennis, beginners’ tennis, social play and competitions. Additionally, Nick has worked hard to promote the Tennis Centre, through Open Days, individual and team coaching and training.

Some of the achievements highlighted in the nomination include:

  • An increase in student society memberships
  • 154+ student members playing university tennis each week
  • The British University and Colleges Sport (BUCS) tennis team has increased from two teams to four
  • Female LTA level 1 delivered to eight participants
  • 100+ took part in TCF competition
  • University ladder league launched

We are wishing the Kent Tennis Centre all the best for February’s voting and look forward to seeing their continued development through the year!