Hi Team Stony Tennis,
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Get ready for non-stop summer fun at Stony Stratford Tennis Club!

Our upcoming Half Term Summer Camp is packed with energy, learning, and laughter – perfect for kids who love to play, improve their skills, and make new friends on court.

Camp Details:  Dates: Tuesday 27th to Friday 30th May

 Times:

• Full Week (Tues–Fri): 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
  Was £137.60 → Now £110.08 (Save 20%)
  (Free T-shirt for hose who attend Full Week Tues-Fri)
• Full Day: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
  Was £37 → Now £29.60 (Save 20%)
• Half Day: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM or 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
  Was £19 → Now £15.20 (Save 20%)​

 Early Bird Offer – Save 20%! Ends 27th April 2025 
Use code MAYCAMP20 by 27th April to enjoy 20% off your camp fees!

 Limited Spaces Available – Don’t Miss Out!
Our camps fill up quickly, so make sure to Book Early and secure your spot.

 Book Now or reply to this email for more details.
Visit our Website for more.
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Looking forward to seeing you on the court!

Happy tennising!
John Cavill
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis,

The recent Netflix series Adolescence has hit me hard as a parent because it reflects everything I worry about for my kids. Nothing scares me more than raising them in a world where social media dictates their self-worth, where their attitudes shift based on online trends, and where they compare themselves to influencers rather than finding value in real-life experiences. Watching the series felt like watching a warning sign—one that I’m already seeing play out in my own older children.

Today’s kids are growing up with their lives constantly on display. Every post, every comment, every photo is judged, fuelling an endless cycle of comparison. When I was young, I might have compared myself to a handful of friends. Now, my children are comparing themselves to millions of people online.

The pressure is immense, and I’ve seen firsthand how it affects my older kids, who are 16 and 18. They’ve told me about the anxiety, the need to keep up appearances, and the way their friends’ behaviours have changed because of social media. Fortunately, they’re smart enough to know right from wrong, but even so, they’re not immune to its influence. This is exactly why I’m doing everything in my power to protect my younger kids from the same exposure.

Another disturbing reality Adolescence highlights is the shift in role models. It frustrates me that today’s kids look up to influencers—people who create content purely for engagement, often promoting shallow or harmful messages. When I was growing up, role models were parents, teachers, athletes, and community leaders. Now, many kids idolise internet personalities who care more about likes and views than setting a good example.

I refuse to let that happen in my home. My younger children will not be shaped by influencers whose primary goal is to sell a fantasy or push toxic trends. It’s up to me to make sure they find role models in real people, not online personas.

I know some people will think my approach is extreme, but I don’t care. I’ve deleted YouTube and any other junk TV from my young kids’ iPads and the TV. They will not have a smartphone before they turn 16, and they won’t be allowed social media accounts until after that. I know they’ll challenge me on it, but as a parent, my job isn’t to make them happy in the short term—it’s to do what’s best for them in the long run.

I’ve seen the effects of social media on my older children. Even though they’re aware of the issues, they still feel the pressure. That’s proof enough for me that I need to do things differently with my younger ones. I refuse to let them grow up with a warped sense of reality, shaped by influencers who only care about their own gain.

The best way I know to fight back against screen addiction is to give my kids something real to hold onto. For me, that’s sport—especially tennis. It keeps them active, challenges their minds, and forces them to interact with people face-to-face. Tennis teaches discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities that no social media app can provide.

Some people might think that having kids play five or six hours of tennis a week is overdoing it. But do they stop to consider that many kids spend five or six hours a day glued to screens? Prioritising physical activity isn’t extreme—it’s necessary.

I felt compelled to write this because I know I’m not alone. I know other parents see what’s happening and feel just as helpless. But we don’t have to stand by and let social media dictate our children’s futures. We can take control, set boundaries, and make sure our kids grow up with real experiences, real friendships, and real values.

The world is changing fast, but our responsibility as parents hasn’t. We must raise strong, well-rounded kids who can think for themselves, build real relationships, and live meaningful lives—not just curate picture-perfect moments for the internet. Let’s stand firm and give our kids the best chance at a healthy, balanced future.

Please feel free to reply to this email if you have any comments or concerns you are facing, as it is really important we help each other for the benefit of our families.

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis,

Being a part of Team Stony Tennis is about much more than just improving our tennis game. It’s about building relationships, fostering friendships, and creating a tight-knit community. Many of you have connected with each other through our services, and today, I’m excited to share something special that Nicholas and Kyle have been working on. I think it’s fantastic and really reflects the spirit of our community!

Nicholas and Kyle have both been involved at the club since they were young, and their tennis journey has taken them far. Kyle, at just 15 years old, now lives with a host family in Bath and trains full-time. Nicholas, 14, still trains at the club and is giving back by helping the next generation of tennis players—hitting with them and offering his insights.

Now, here's the exciting part: since September last year, Nicholas and Kyle have embarked on an incredible journey by starting their own podcast called 'Chip N’ Charge’. They dive deep into the events and players on the professional tennis circuit every week, and their insights are truly second to none. I had the chance to listen to their podcast recently, and I was instantly impressed by how articulate and creative they are!

This shows just how being a part of Team Stony Tennis can inspire other creative ventures beyond the court. Their podcast has already gathered a loyal audience of around 100 regular listeners, and they’ve even secured a sponsorship deal!

Every Wednesday, the boys jump on a call to record the podcast, then with a bit of editing and some social media clips, they share it with the world. You can support them and enjoy their brilliant insights by subscribing to 'Chip N’ Charge':

• Subscribe here
• Listen on Apple Podcasts
• Or on Spotify
• You can also find it on other podcast platforms – just search for ‘Chip N’ Charge Podcast.’

I would like to take a moment to congratulate both boys for their hard work and dedication in making this happen. It’s no small feat, and I’m so proud to see them pursue their passion in such a creative way!

I hope you all enjoy the podcast as much as I do. Feel free to share your thoughts by replying to this email, and I’ll be sure to pass the message along to Nicholas and Kyle.

Thank you for being such an important part of Team Stony Tennis!

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis,

I have been running the LTA Youth Tennis Leaders Course for years and it equips individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a positive impact in the world of tennis, whether through coaching, organizing, or promoting the sport.

We are holding a course on Monday 14th and Tuesday 15th April, 8.30am to 4pm at the club, so anyone age 11-18 can register by clicking here. This is how we recruit paid assistants to help with our coaching.

Completing a tennis leaders course offers several benefits for individuals interested in coaching, organizing events, or enhancing their leadership skills within the sport. Here are some key advantages:

1. Coaching Skills Development: The course provides foundational coaching techniques, helping participants understand how to effectively teach tennis skills to beginners and young players.

2. Leadership Experience: Participants gain practical experience in leadership, learning how to manage groups, plan activities, and lead sessions confidently.

3. Career Advancement: Completing the course can be a stepping stone for those looking to pursue a career in sports coaching, sports management, or education.

4. Community Engagement: Leaders can contribute to their local tennis communities by organizing events, running coaching sessions, and promoting the sport, thereby fostering a sense of community and encouraging participation.

5. Personal Growth: The course helps develop essential life skills such as communication, organization, problem-solving, and teamwork, which are valuable in both professional and personal contexts.

6. Networking Opportunities: Participants can connect with other tennis enthusiasts, coaches, and sports professionals, building a network that can offer support, advice, and opportunities in the future.

7. Certification and Recognition: Successful completion of the course comes with a certification that is recognized within the tennis community and can enhance one’s credibility and employability in the sports sector.

8. Increased Confidence: Leading sessions and managing groups can significantly boost personal confidence and self-esteem, especially in young leaders.

If your child is keen to get involved in our upcoming course, then please click here to register, otherwise if you have any questions, then please reply to this email.

We look forward to training our future assistants and coaches soon!

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis,

Children today are growing up in a vastly different world compared to 20 or 30 years ago. The pressures they face have evolved significantly, driven by changes in technology, education, and societal expectations. While previous generations certainly encountered their own challenges, today’s young people are dealing with a unique set of stressors that can impact their mental and physical well-being. Fortunately, sports like tennis provide an invaluable outlet for managing these pressures, fostering resilience, and promoting overall development.

As a parent of 4 children, I have experienced some of the issues my 16 & 18-year-old children have and are facing, but I also have concerns for my 8 & 5 year-old children as many of the factors are growing, not declining.

I would like to start by highlighting the new pressures on today’s youth.
Unlike previous generations, children today are constantly connected through social media. While this can offer social opportunities, it also brings a host of issues, including cyberbullying, unrealistic comparisons, and the pressure to present a ‘perfect’ life online. The need for validation through likes, comments, and followers can contribute to anxiety and lower self-esteem.

The emphasis on academic success has increased tremendously, with students facing immense pressure to excel in school from an early age. Standardised testing, higher expectations for university admission, and the demand for extracurricular achievements can leave children feeling overwhelmed.

With advancements in technology, many children spend less time engaged in physical activities and more time on screens. This shift has led to decreased opportunities for social interaction, physical development, and stress relief, which were more naturally embedded in childhood 20-30 years ago.

The digital age has created a culture of instant gratification, where young people are accustomed to immediate results—whether in entertainment, shopping, or communication. This can make it harder for them to develop patience, perseverance, and the ability to cope with setbacks.
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With all these pressures combined, it's no surprise that anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues have become more prevalent among children and teenagers. The stigma around discussing mental health has lessened, but many young people still struggle to find healthy ways to manage stress.
​
Tennis is more than just a sport—it’s a powerful tool for personal growth, resilience, and well-being. Engaging in tennis can help children navigate the modern pressures they face in several meaningful ways.

Tennis provides an excellent physical workout, promoting cardiovascular fitness, agility, and coordination. Exercise is proven to reduce stress and anxiety while boosting mood through the release of endorphins. Unlike sedentary screen time, tennis keeps children active and engaged in a healthy way.

The individual nature of tennis teaches children to take responsibility for their performance, fostering self-reliance and confidence. As they improve their skills and see progress, their self-esteem naturally grows, counteracting the negative effects of social media comparisons.

Tennis is a sport of problem-solving. Each match requires players to think strategically, adapt to their opponent, and manage their emotions. Losing a match teaches resilience and the importance of perseverance—qualities that are essential for handling life’s challenges.

Unlike the isolating effects of excessive screen time, tennis fosters meaningful face-to-face interactions. Whether through group training, doubles play, or club activities, tennis helps children build friendships and social skills in a positive, real-world setting.

Tennis requires consistent practice, patience, and dedication. Unlike the instant gratification culture promoted by technology, tennis rewards long-term commitment and hard work. Learning to master skills over time helps children develop discipline and a growth mindset.

With intense academic demands, children need an outlet to relieve stress. Tennis provides a structured yet enjoyable break from studying, allowing them to recharge and return to their schoolwork with renewed focus and energy.

The world has changed significantly in the past few decades, bringing new pressures that children must navigate. Social media, academic demands, reduced outdoor play, and mental health concerns all contribute to the challenges they face. However, sports like tennis offer a powerful solution, helping young people build resilience, confidence, and social connections while promoting physical and mental well-being.

Encouraging children to engage in tennis can provide them with the tools they need to manage modern pressures, develop important life skills, and most importantly, enjoy themselves in a healthy and supportive environment. Tennis is not just a game—it’s a pathway to a happier, healthier future.

I know tennis is my job, but I am in such a privileged role to support children, adults and families through Team Stony Tennis. I have so many examples of how tennis has helped people’s lives in many areas, and I’d like to thank you for all of your support as we continue to make a huge difference.

If this email resonates with you and would like to share with me how tennis has helped you, your children or family, I would be so grateful to hear from you.

Happy tennising!

John Cavill

Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis,

Get ready for an exciting Easter Tennis Camp at Stony Stratford Tennis Club!  Join us for a week of fun, learning, and skill-building on the court.

Camp Details:  Dates: Monday 14th April to Thursday 17th April

 Times:

• Full Week: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM (Monday to Thursday)
  Was £137.60, Now £110.08 with a 20% Discount
• Full-Day: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
  Was £37, Now £29.60 with a 20% Discount
• Half-Day:  8:30 AM - 12:00 PM or 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM
  Was £19, Now £15.20 with a 20% Discount

 Early Bird Offer – Save 20%! Ends 9th March 2025 

Use code EASTCAMP20 by 9th March to enjoy 20% off your camp fees!

Spaces are filling fast, so don’t miss out! Secure your spot today.

 Book Now or reply to this email for more details.
Looking forward to seeing you on the court!


Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis,

In April we are hosting our prestigious regional LTA Grade 3 tournament at the club which attracts players both locally and from all over the country. Having attracted 285 entries in our first year, we over-exceeded all expectations by about 100 entries, to put the club firmly on the UK competition map!

These events are fantastic for exposure and to give local players the opportunity to compete at a high level without excessive travel, but the reality of these events is that they are only possible with the help of volunteers and sponsorship. The cost of balls, trophies, referee, administration, court supervisors, marketing and much more are always a challenge.

We are looking for companies and individuals to help us help local competitive players but there is more to sponsorship than just a charitable gesture; it’s an investment in the future. From promoting healthy lifestyles to building community ties, supporting young athletes brings numerous benefits to both the sponsors and the community.

Here’s why sponsoring youth sports is a rewarding and impactful decision.

1. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
Youth sports play a crucial role in promoting physical activity, helping children develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime. By sponsoring these programmes, businesses contribute to the well-being of young athletes, encouraging them to stay active, fit, and healthy.

2. Fostering Teamwork and Leadership
Sports teach essential life skills like teamwork, leadership, and communication. By supporting youth sports, sponsors help cultivate these qualities in young players, preparing them for future roles in their personal and professional lives.

3. Strengthening Community Bonds
Sponsoring local youth sports teams fosters a sense of community and belonging. It brings people together, creating a supportive environment where children and families can thrive. Businesses that invest in local sports become valued community partners, enhancing their reputation and goodwill.

4. Providing Opportunities for All
Many families face financial barriers that prevent their children from participating in sports. Sponsorships can help cover the costs of equipment, kit, and travel, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to play, regardless of their economic background.

5. Encouraging Academic and Social Success
Participation in sports has been linked to improved academic performance and social development. Sponsors play a vital role in supporting programmes that help young athletes succeed not just on the court, but also in the classroom and beyond.

6. Building Brand Awareness and Loyalty
Sponsoring youth sports is an effective way for businesses to increase brand visibility and connect with local audiences. By associating their brand with positive community activities, companies can enhance their public image, attract new customers, and foster loyalty among existing ones.

7. Inspiring Future Leaders
Youth sports programmes often inspire participants to pursue leadership roles, whether in sports, business, or community service. Sponsors contribute to the development of future leaders who can make a positive impact on society.

8. Creating Positive Role Models
Through sponsorship, businesses can help provide young athletes with access to mentors, coaches, and role models who inspire and guide them. These relationships can have a lasting impact, shaping the character and values of young players.

9. Demonstrating Corporate Social Responsibility
Sponsoring youth sports aligns with corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals. It shows that a business is committed to giving back to the community, which can enhance its reputation and build trust with customers and stakeholders.

10. Making a Lasting Impact
The benefits of youth sports sponsorship go beyond immediate financial support. They leave a lasting impact by contributing to the personal development of young athletes, enriching the community, and setting a positive example for other businesses to follow.

I know that sponsorship is a meaningful way to make a difference in the lives of these young athletes while also benefiting the sponsoring organisation. It’s an investment in health, education, and community, creating a ripple effect of positive outcomes. Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, supporting youth sports is a powerful way to give back and ensure a brighter future for the next generation.

So, if you or your company would like to make a lasting impact— I would really welcome a conversation on how you can make a world of difference.

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis,

Tomorrow the kids break up for February Half Term and this is your last chance to sign up for our exciting Tennis & Multi-Activity Camp, kicking off on Monday, 17th February. Don’t miss out on a week of fun, learning, and active play!

Camp Highlights:

 For Ages 5-14 – Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players.

 Indoor & Outdoor Fun – Play on indoor courts, use our fitness studio, and relax in the clubhouse.

 Exciting Activities – Tennis drills, matches, plus games like football, basketball, rounders, dodgeball & more!

Camp Details:

 Dates: Monday 17th – Friday 21st February

 Times & Prices:

 Full Week (Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM) – £167.00 (Includes a FREE T-shirt!)
 Full Day (8:30 AM - 4:00 PM) – £35.00
 Half Day (8:30 AM - 12:00 PM or 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM) – £18.00


Why Join?

 Skill Development – Learn from expert coaches and improve your game.

 Social Fun – Make new friends and enjoy screen-free activities.

 Safe & Supervised – A fully monitored and secure environment.

Register Now!

• Sign Up: Click here to register or visit our website for more details.

Limited spots are available, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity for a week full of tennis, fun, and new friendships!

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis,

I think we have a big problem in the UK to produce a large number of top tennis players. I love tennis and deep down inside, I am always looking at talented kids and wondering where they will be in the next 10-15 years. Other countries have a wealth of talent coming through, so what is it that is stopping the UK?

I put it down to several factors, starting with limited access to facilities and coaching. High-quality tennis facilities and professional coaching can be expensive and less accessible compared to other sports, limiting the pool of young players who can train effectively from an early age. You’ve only got to compare tennis with the infrastructure football has and we are a million miles away.

We all moan about it, especially this time of year, but the UK's often inclement weather can hinder outdoor training and play, potentially reducing the amount of practice time available compared to countries with more favorable climates. Somewhere like Barcelona or Mallorca that have 300 days a year of sunshine makes it far more favorable.

We also have a huge lack of indoor facilities across the country, which is mainly due to the cost. Having a great big indoor space with 4 people on it isn’t as financially rewarding as 40 people using the same space as a gym. Personally, if there was more investment in affordable and accessible indoor facilities, I think there would be more people playing.

As mentioned earlier, sports like football and rugby are extremely popular in the UK and attract much of the talent and resources, leaving tennis with a smaller pool of potential elite athletes. These sports feature highly on the school curriculum and are easier for teachers to organize both from a facility and play perspective.

I also feel that there is an issue with the grassroots development programmes, including insufficient funding, inadequate facilities, or lack of structured pathways for young players to progress to higher levels. Cultural factors may also play their part as tennis has traditionally been seen as a middle-class sport in the UK, which might limit participation across different socio-economic groups. This cultural perception can reduce the diversity and number of young people taking up the sport.

Team sports are generally much cheaper than individual sports and I see financial barriers everywhere! Tennis can be an expensive sport to pursue at a competitive level, with costs for coaching, equipment, travel, and tournament fees potentially prohibiting talented individuals from lower-income backgrounds. Because football development is done by the clubs which invest huge amounts of money generated from their commercial activities, tennis clubs are nowhere near the same league. Most of the money comes from parental investment where if you are a talented footballer, the club will provide everything.

Developing a top tennis player requires comprehensive support, including sports science, nutrition, and psychological coaching. If these support systems are not adequately provided, players may struggle to reach their full potential. If you go to Spain, there are loads of academies where you can train full time. This is not the same in the UK, so again, we are not going to produce the volume at the bottom to get the number at the top.

While there have been successful British tennis players like Andy Murray, a broader base of role models can inspire more young players to take up the sport and pursue it seriously. Everyone wants to be Erling Haaland or Jordan Pickford (sorry, I had to get an Everton player in here somehow!), but the media coverage is dominated by football with other sports above us.

Finally, the structure and competitiveness of junior and lower-level adult competitions in the UK is way behind other countries and I believe this has a huge impact on player development. A lack of challenging and frequent competitive opportunities will hinder progress. When you go to southern Spain, every week there will be suitable tournaments not far away.

Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from the governing body, local clubs, schools, and the community to create a more inclusive, accessible, and supportive environment for budding tennis talent.

Here at Stony Stratford Tennis Club, we are very proud to have overcome many of the challenges. We have cheap and accessible indoor courts, accessible coaching programme all year around and we encourage players to compete regularly. These kids are likely not to become professional tennis players, but who knows? One thing we can guarantee is that they will be well-rounded individuals and likely to achieve greatness in their life as they get older. This is the true value of tennis and what has kept me on a tennis court for 30 years.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic, so please reply and let me know.

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis,

As we approach February Half Term, parents look for meaningful activities for their children. Tennis Camps foster not just tennis skills but also overall personal development, and our camp is designed with that in mind.

Here are some key benefits children receive when attending camps:

1. Active and Engaging Fun: Instead of spending the break glued to screens, children enjoy active days filled with tennis drills, games, and friendly competitions. It's a great way to keep them moving and energized!

2. Social Interaction: Camp provides a fantastic environment for children to make new friends who share their passion for tennis.

3. Skill Development: Our experienced coaches focus on improving tennis techniques tailored to each child's level.

4. Healthy Habits: Encouraging physical activity during the holidays helps maintain healthy habits and boosts overall well-being.

5. Confidence Boost: Mastering new skills and challenges at camp boosts self-confidence.

6. Professional Coaching: Learn from experienced and certified coaches.

7. Social Media Distraction: Holiday Camp provides a healthy and engaging environment that naturally shifts focus away from screens and social media.

From our experience, the children return home with a sense of achievement and readiness to take on new tennis goals.

Team Stony Tennis take pride in offering more than just tennis lessons—we provide an environment where players of all levels feel valued, supported, and inspired to excel. Our experienced coaches are dedicated to helping growth, paying close attention to unique needs, and tailoring their approach to help achieve goals. Whether the player is a beginner learning the basics or an advanced player honing their skills, our team ensures every session is filled with expert guidance, encouragement, and care.

If you are interested in our Indoor February Tennis & Multi-Activity Camp and want to grab an exclusive 10% discount, then please sign up before Sunday, 9th February 2025!

Registration Info:

• Sign Up: Click here to register or visit our website for more details
• Use code FEBCAMP10 at checkout to get your 10% discount – hurry, the offer ends on 9th Feb!

If you have any questions, then please reply to this email and I’ll be happy to help.


Happy tennising!
​
John Cavill
Director of Tennis