Racquets, also known as “hardracquets” or “rackets,” is the fastest racquet game in the world. The Tennis & Racquet Club is one of only six facilities in the country with a racquets court. The racquets program at the T&R includes private and group lessons, in-house tournaments, and participation in national and international competitions. The Club hosted the U.S. Open in 2006, an event noted as much for its lively social activities as for the high level of play.
Director of Athletics Leon Smart:
Leon has been a Court Tennis, Racquets and Squash Professional at the T&R since October 2015. He first came across court tennis while studying at Middlesex University. With his background originally being in lawn tennis, he had a natural desire to learn about the sport. He was soon offered an internship which allowed him to be a court tennis professional. Upon graduating from Middlesex, he was offered a full scholarship to play Lawn Tennis at Delta State University, where he also earned his M.S. Sports Law and Facilities Management. He later returned to London where he worked as a court tennis professional for one year before joining the T&R professional team. His highest official world ranking in court tennis is 14.
Racquets 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 Racquets
North American Racquets Association
Recent racquets events, including draws, event results and pictures.
British Racquets
Information on the game in England.
