Each month here at David Lloyd Clubs we like to share our Tennis Club Member of the Month with you. Whether they’re played for years, compete competitively, or simply enjoy a social game with friends in a David Lloyd Club, we like to highlight someone special.
This month is the turn of Ross Powell who plays tennis in Liverpool Knowsley at the David Lloyd Club. Take a look below to find out about his game, how David Lloyd Knowsley’s tennis facilities and coaches have helped him improve, and lots more.
Ross Powell | David Lloyd Liverpool Knowsley
Name: Ross Powell
Club: David Lloyd Liverpool Knowsley
Age: 21
Occupation: Student
Years playing tennis: 9 years
Favourite player: Roger Federer
Coach: Paul Freeman (Liverpool Speke)
What is your favourite thing about playing at David Lloyd Liverpool Knowsley?
I am very competitive, so I enjoy playing for the teams in the local leagues, I also enjoy the social aspect as well.
Why did you take up tennis?
When I joined David Lloyd Liverpool Knowsley at aged 12, I tried a tennis taster with one of the coaches. I found I enjoyed it so much, I decided to start playing more often.
What would you say your individual style of tennis is?
I would say my style of tennis is an all-round player, because I am comfortable using a lot of different shots. Also, a lot of the shots I use are best matched to exploit the opponent’s weaknesses.
How has tennis helped you in other aspects of your life?
Tennis has definitely helped improve my fitness and also my confidence.
How has your tennis coach helped you improve your game?
My tennis coach has helped me improve in many different ways including my shot making ability, my consistency and the overall strategy of my game.
What tips do you have for people wanting to get into tennis?
Start with a beginner’s group class – this helps with confidence and you can enjoy learning with people who are also just starting out.
The classes are also developed for teaching people who are at a similar skill level, so you won’t feel intimidated by more advanced players.
What is your best tennis shot and why?
My forehand is my best shot because I am able to generate a lot of power and spin, enabling me to be aggressive with my shots. I also find it to be reliable and consistent in pressure situations.
What is your weakest tennis shot and how could you improve?
The smash is my weakest shot. I could improve this by practising it more often, but also hitting it with more confidence, which I feel I lack when approaching this particular shot.
Do any of the other David Lloyd Club facilities help you improve your tennis game?
The gym has played a big part in helping my tennis game, it has helped to improve my endurance, my strength and my overall fitness and lifestyle.
What is your favourite method of training and why?
I enjoy cardio and weight training. But, I most enjoy sports specific training – this type of training helps me to improve in my overall tennis game.
If you’re interested in playing tennis, find your local David Lloyd Club here.
Comments by Lauren