The Tennis & Racquet Club features a court tennis court, the only one of its kind in the region. The game features handmade balls, slate walls, a court layout reminiscent of a palace courtyard, and requires the ability to hit off side, roof, and back surfaces. The T&R provides court tennis programs at all levels, from junior to expert, with both private and group lessons, as well as organized clinics.
Director of Athletics Leon Smart:
Leon has been a member of the T&R professional team since October 2015, specializing in Court Tennis, Racquets, and Squash. He was first introduced to Court Tennis while studying at Middlesex University, where his background in Lawn Tennis sparked a natural interest in the sport. An internship soon provided him with the opportunity to train as a Court Tennis professional.
After graduating from Middlesex, Leon earned an athletic scholarship to Delta State University, where he competed in Lawn Tennis and studied for a master’s degree in Sports Law and Facilities Management. He later returned to London, starting his career as a Court Tennis professional before joining the T&R.
Leon has competed in international Court Tennis & Racquets events, demonstrating his versatility and expertise across multiple disciplines. Currently ranked as world number 7 in Court Tennis, he brings exceptional skill, experience, and dedication to the T&R community.
Court Tennis Professional Neil Smith:
Neil has been deeply involved in Racquets and Court Tennis for over forty years. In that time, he has competed at the highest level winning multiple opens in the U.K. and North America. Highlights of his playing career include becoming World Champion in both Singles & Doubles Racquets.
He has coached players from juniors just starting the sports to elite players training and competing for the World Championships. His most rewarding time on court is spent helping his pupils learn new skills, be that mastering a new technique such as a serve, or thinking of different ways of constructing a rally.
For information on lessons and events Email Leon at Leon@TandR.org .
Links for more information on Court Tennis:
US Court Tennis Preservation Foundation and US Court Tennis Association
History of the game, upcoming events, rankings, and recent event photos.
International Real Tennis Professionals Association
Information on professionals, upper level tournaments, world singles and doubles championships, and world rankings.
Tennis & Rackets Association
Website for the British Real Tennis Association
For the current Court Tennis Handicap List please follow this link handicap-list
