As excitement before Wimbledon grows, Exeter Cathedral has launched a first-of-its-kind partnership to make tennis accessible for children. 

As part of its youth mission to create real-world opportunities, the Cathedral has teamed up with the former professional players to open up the sport to children who lack access to facilities and coaching. 

Penny Moor and Trish Bostrom, founding members of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), brought together young people, sports coaches and the Cathedral’s Dean during an event on the Cathedral Green on Monday. 

As trustee of the Elena Baltacha Foundation, set up in memory of the former British top seed, Exeter native Moor is leading efforts to ensure all have a fair chance to play, highlighting how sport can build confidence and wellbeing. 

“I am delighted that this is the first combination of tennis advocates and a Cathedral joining together to promote the development of all youth, regardless of their economic status,” Moor said, “tennis has dramatically changed my life, so I am thrilled to be helping realise the vision of the Elena Baltacha Foundation in helping youth in the region.” 

Ella Barber, the Cathedral’s youth engagement officer, believes the project helps community outreach and provides meaningful experiences for local youth.

In one of his final appearances as Dean of Exeter, Very Rev Johnathan Greener said it was a “real joy” to be involved.

“One of the Cathedral’s key objectives is to promote wellbeing for people of all ages – hence our desire to do our bit in helping youngsters develop a love for tennis. We wish this great initiative every success”, he added.