We’re thrilled to introduce you to our new head coach, Mark Edwards, who brings over 21 years of coaching experience to our vibrant tennis community. In this blog, we dive into Mark’s journey into tennis coaching, his favorite shots, and what you can expect from a lesson with him.
Mark’s passion for tennis started at a young age. “When I was around 15 or 16, I did my work experience at a tennis club not far from me,” he recalls. “We worked with various groups, including disability groups, and I found it one of the most rewarding experiences. Each player presents a unique challenge, making it exciting and fulfilling every day.”
This dedication to helping others improve their game is what drives Mark as a coach. He loves the challenge of working with different players, tailoring his approach to meet their individual needs.
When asked about his favourite shot, Mark enthusiastically mentions the single-handed backhand down the line, inspired by one of his all-time favourite players, Gustavo Kuerten. “I’m trying to chase that Roger Federer shot every time I hit it,” he jokes, acknowledging the challenges of perfection. He fondly remembers Kuerten’s distinctive style, noting, “He looked so different with his colourful outfits and crazy hair. I even tried to emulate him with some horrendous hairstyles!”
Mark aims to instill a similar love for the game in his students, focusing on teaching techniques that are not only effective but also practical for match play. “What I want is for you to take something useful that will work in a game—something you can use on the court every time,” he explains. His goal is to help players become tougher opponents by improving their skills.
Mark’s vision for Rye Lawn Tennis Club is to welcome more people into the sport. “We want to bring more people into the club to try out what we have to offer,” he says. To make this easier, he offers free first lessons for newcomers. Whether it’s your first group session or joining a club morning, you can experience the joy of tennis without any commitment.
Mark is eager to help players of all levels discover their potential and enjoy the game. So why not take the plunge? Join us at Rye Lawn Tennis Club and see what tennis has to offer!
Check out our interview with Mark in the video below to learn more about his coaching philosophy and tips for aspiring tennis players!