A TENNIS talent from Andover is competing in finals of the country’s largest grassroots competition at Wimbledon.
Annie Hall has battled it out in the county and regional competition to make it to Wimbledon for the Play Your Way To Wimbledon Final.
The finals that began at Wimbledon’s Aorangi Courts on Sunday, August 7, will be held until Saturday, August 13.
The tournament, that began in March, is delivered in partnership by the LTA, the All-England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club and Vodafone.
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The competition has already delivered more than 10,000 playing opportunities across more than 800 venues this year, with finalists winning the opportunity to compete on the iconic Wimbledon grass.
It is featuring 14U Singles and 18U Doubles for both boys and girls.
Oliver Scadgell, participation director at the LTA, said: “Play Your Way to Wimbledon, Powered by Vodafone this year has provided a fantastic opportunity for thousands of young people across the country to participate in tennis; culminating in this week-long finals stage for our regional champions.
"With the ongoing support of Vodafone and the All England Club, we’re excited to continue in our goal of growing tennis at the grassroots level and getting more people involved in the sport in the future.”
Gus Henderson, commercial director at the All England Club, said: “After the success of this year’s tournament and all the hard work each player has put in over the last few weeks, we’re delighted to welcome competitors to the national finals at Wimbledon.
"Seeing the excitement and dedication from the players, staff and partners over the last few weeks provides even more encouragement for us to build on the heritage of the competition and provide even more opportunities to access the sport in the future.”
Vodafone ambassador Tim Henman said: “Playing at Wimbledon was always the highlight of my year during my tennis career, so it’s wonderful to work with Vodafone to support Play Your Way to Wimbledon, and give the next generation of tennis talent a chance to play at SW19.”
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Vodafone consumer director, Max Taylor said: “We are looking forward to what is set to be a week-long celebration of grassroots tennis. Play Your Way to Wimbledon has provided playing opportunities to 10,000 young players across 800 venues.
"We’re looking forward to working with the LTA, AELTC and our Vodafone tennis ambassadors to expand the competition, and deliver even more opportunities to play in the coming years.”
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