More women in South Islington will have the opportunity to play tennis.

The British LTA Tennis Foundation has provided significant support by awarding a grant that enables the expansion of the Tennis for All program. Currently active in several London boroughs, including Islington, Hackney and Haringey, areas with high-density social housing and limited access to sports facilities, the program aims to break down barriers to tennis training.

The initiative offers tennis sessions for adults, women-only groups and juniors, as well as the popular Free Fun Friday, a summer camp style experience designed for kids. Special emphasis is placed on female coaching staff, with participants highlighting how training with women fosters a supportive environment that makes it easier to overcome fears and self-doubt.

Sessions take place in Rosemary Gardens, which has evolved into more than just a training ground. It has become a true community hub for families. Here, participants not only refine their tennis skills but also strengthen their connections with those around them.

Attending the course didn’t just improve my tennis. It gave me a greater sense of belonging. I’ve loved meeting local women and forming connections in such a positive and encouraging atmosphere, says Jo Halstead, a program participant.

It’s worth noting that, according to the International Tennis Federation, female participation in tennis remains a global issue. The percentage of women playing the sport is significantly lower than that of men.

The situation in Europe is even more striking. Despite women making up 51.2 percent of the total population, the highest proportion globally, their representation in tennis lags behind at just 40 percent. Not only is this surprising, but it also falls below the global average, underscoring the gap between overall gender parity and participation in sports.