Press Release: Launch Day in Schools - April 2019

24th April 2019

Kent sports stars rally behind local children’s tennis charity

Former top tennis player Naomi Cavaday and former Olympic triple jumper Michelle Robinson are both backing a new children’s tennis initiative being launched in memory of nine-year-old Kent tennis player Sadie Bristow, who died last year.

Cavaday and Robinson took to the courts on Wednesday with children from Chartham, Bridge and Patrixbourne Primary schools for free tennis coaching to launch the Chartham-based charity’s ‘Sadie’s Way’ Tennis for Children Programme.

The programme aims to provide free coaching and learning modules to local schools to help children learn ‘Sadie’s Way’ of playing, which puts a focus on understanding and kindness as well as athletic ability in tennis.

Naomi Cavaday said:
“I have read about what a talented young player Sadie was and I’m thrilled to be able to support such a worthwhile programme inspired by her memory. It’s so important to give children the opportunity to enjoy learning tennis. It’s not about playing on Centre Court at Wimbledon, it’s about giving kids a new skill, encouraging them to be active and have fun together.”

Michelle Robinson said:
“Sport is so important for building children’s confidence and instilling a love of sport and being active early on. I am really proud to support the Sadie Bristow Foundation and it’s great to see so many children running around today and giving tennis a try. I’m hoping to improve my own tennis a bit at the same time!”

The Foundation is supported by Kent Tennis and the Lawn Tennis Association’s London and South East Tennis regional team.

PRESS STATEMENT: Chartham Primary School

“We are delighted to be involved in supporting Sadie’s parents in launching the Sadie Bristow Foundation. The school community were immensely proud of all of Sadie’s achievements in tennis and sport and the school will ensure that her legacy continues. Sadie was a great pupil, always championing our school values and we are now looking forward to the future in giving more children opportunities to learn and play tennis at school, as well as focusing on athletic skills to enhance children’s abilities across all sports.”
Dean Jones
Executive Headteacher