Forres teenager wins national award
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A teenager from Forres has won a national award for helping to promote sport in Moray.
Forres Tennis Club member, Mathew Douglas (17), has been named as Tennis Scotland Young Volunteer of the Year following his devotion to the sport in the area.
He said: “I started volunteering years ago at the club because I wanted to give something back while assisting the coach who has always encouraged and supported me. It still makes me so happy to see all the smiling faces at the end of a session, even on the days when it is snowing or raining.
“Hopefully next year I can do even more work for both the tennis club and the School of Tennis programme to motivate the next set of volunteers in Forres and the Highlands.”
Mathew has had a busy year achieving his UKCC L1 and L2 coaching certificates, first aid certificate, safeguarding and protection qualifications.
He attended CPD Tennis on the Road events with Judy Murray and continues to assist in the delivery of sessions at the club and Forres Academy,
Matthew also assisted with the running of club and school competitions, staff versus pupils matches, promoted The School of Tennis, and introduced short/soft ball tennis at Forres Academy.
As Lead Young Tennis Ambassador at his school, Matthew inspires younger ambassadors and encourages them to get involved with tennis at all levels.
He even assists and directs Moray Council coaches in the delivery of introductory sessions to Forres primary school pupils.
School of Tennis lead at Forres Academy, Ann Rossiter, is delighted Matthew has been rewarded for his ongoing hard work.
She said: “Matthew has made great progress with his own personal development and has demonstrated real commitment through his volunteering role.
“This is an award that he should look back on with great pride.”
