La Manga Tennis Tour

The La Manga resort delivered on the promise of fine February half term weather, superb red clay courts and a beautiful scenic backdrop. Many of the 27 strong group commented on us being there as surreal!

Daily coaching was with the outstanding 5Star Tennis Holidays team of Director Coach, Phil Thomas, Chris Llewellyn and Charlie Pick. They were an instant hit, with their extensive knowledge, personality and good humour- gaining the very best from the group. Morning sessions were more technical / tactical on all shots with team play in the afternoons. There were several stand out key note messages for the players. One being, to find their threshold hitting tempo on all shots including their serve. Further, to bring the morning session skills into afternoon performances, and that the industry of movement off the ball was not so much to do with talent, but effort and a hard work ethic.

The 5^th form and Lower sixth observed quiet supported study in the morning and after the tasty buffet style lunch at the Tie Break restaurant before afternoon sessions. The juniors enjoyed some Crazy Golf and fun games. With a fair number of boys arriving late at one afternoon session, coach Phil explained and introduced ‘Lombardi Time’ to the group, with a request of being ready 5 minutes before the session as a compromise in difference to Lombardi’s fifteen. One could sense the renewed urgency of everyone being on time!

In the afternoons the group were paired to play in a Davis Cup style singles and doubles events, with points often accumulated. The value of the morning skills was evident in the variety of shots and control on display. The winners of the group A event were Rob Hoare (c) and Sam Vincent (g). Angus Macdonald (g) and Alfie Davies (m) were top of the group B competition. One of the repeated favourite afternoon fun games was ‘Sky-High’. The challenging pair having to win a point with both pairs starting on the baseline.  After winning a point, the challenging pair running to the other end to play the sky-high feed from the coach, taking on the next challenging pair. This was an excellent way of instinctively nurturing attacking and defensive skills.

After tennis there was the opportunity to have a swim or steam / sauna at the very calming Wellness SPA. Alternatively, it was a time to relax in the spacious Las Lomas apartments, nestled on the side of the hill. Evening meals followed at the very popular Luigi’s restaurant at 7.00 pm.

After the morning tennis session on the final day, the whole group gathered on the famous La Manga centre court, where the forthcoming Spanish Federation Cup World group play-off match will be held in April. The 5 Star coaching team presented Nick Morris (a) their player of the tour award, after a unanimous vote based on his consistent application and progress throughout the week. Luca Bryant (m) was awarded most improved junior and Sam Vincent (g) most improved senior player. Alex Rivers (m) was voted the Players player. The boys now have every opportunity to bring their improved skills to the season.

Our thanks go to 5 Star Tennis Holidays Operations Director Pat Mancini for his support and tweaking of arrangements, the tennis coaches, La Manga resort and North Dorset Travel who looked after us so very well. My personal thanks also to Mr Jackson and Mr Hayes for their unerring support of tasks abroad and all Sherborne staff who contributed to the trip arrangements.

Jeremy Priddle

Lead Tennis Coach

Photography- Mr Hayes.

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