THE recently-installed chief executive of the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) is predicting a bright future for tennis in the North-East.
It was only six weeks ago that Roger Draper was handed the unenviable task of improving the standard of British tennis.
And, having masterminded London's successful bid for the 2012 Olympics as chief executive of Sport England in his previous role, it would seem the LTA is in safe hands.
"It's my job to run British tennis, everything from getting people playing, through to developing more facilities, " said Draper.
"I always knew it was going to be a big job but my last job at Sport England was big and we went on to win the Olympics, so coming into tennis is something I don't want to miss."
On a whistle stop tour of the UK, Draper was at David Lloyd's Racquet and Fitness Club at Tees Barrage, Thornaby on Wednesday to meet National Premier Tennis League director Mike Dixon.
"We're extremely grateful that Roger has taken the time to come up and have a look around, " said Dixon, "He wants to know exactly what is happening in British tennis, so it was a great opportunity to spend some time with him."
Dixon introduced the North-East Winter League seven years ago. Since then the competition has gone from strength to strength.
David Lloyd's hosted the National Premier Tennis Finals in March and it is hoped the venue can attract the top 100 players at next year's event, which has already raised £100,000.
The work of Dixon has not gone unnoticed and Draper will no doubt hope that such success can be emulated throughout the UK.
"It's great to hear about the work Mike has been doing in the NorthEast, which is really growing, " said Draper.
"He has provided lots of competitive opportunities for people around the area. The North-East is not only a passionate sporting region, but it's a passionate tennis region as well.
"Football has good competitive structures and there is no reason tennis can't have one as well.
"We want lots of those kids, who are playing mini soccer and mini rugby, to be playing mini tennis."
But, with many areas in the NorthEast starved of tennis facilities, Draper is under no illusions as to the task he is faced with.
He said: "If tennis is going to improve as a sport then it must be more accessible and affordable.
"The talent is definitely out there, but it's wasted without the facilities to utilise it. There are some fantastic places to play, but some places aren't so fortunate and that is something that needs to be addressed."
And when it is addressed, Draper will be doing everything he can to ensure the tennis stars of tomorrow are given the best possible guidance.
"The top of my priority list at the LTA is to get many more coaches out on the ground, " said Draper. "They are the ones who are going to get people out and playing.
"We need to nurture the talent and bring the kids through."
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