Blackbrook Leisure Centre to host wheelchair tennis open day

Blackbrook Leisure Centre and Spa will host the event on Sunday, June 15, from 2pm to 6pm, inviting wheelchair users of all ages and abilities to take part.

The inclusive event aims to introduce more people to wheelchair tennis through a range of fun activities, skill-building sessions, and specialist support.

Nina Ware, a 37-year-old athlete from Taunton and wheelchair user, plans to try the sport for the first time at the open day.

She said: “Joining Blackbrook Leisure Centre and Spa has been a massive help to me as it has been difficult adjusting to life with all my complex disabilities.

“The staff are so welcoming and encouraging, keeping their motto to help make everyone active.

“I am very excited to be trying out wheelchair tennis for the first time at the open day and meeting everyone.

“I encourage anyone in a wheelchair, no matter their ability, to come along and have some fun.”

Ms Ware became seriously ill 10 years ago and now lives with a brain injury, spinal issues, and other complex conditions.

Despite her challenges, she regularly competes in wheelchair rugby and basketball at premiership and national level.

She uses a wheelchair with an oxygen tank attached and is working towards joining the GB talent pathway for the Paralympics.

Ms Ware has also been named an Everyone Active Sporting Champion for 2025.

She said: “Due to having regular seizures, I need additional support from a carer.

“The team at the leisure centre has supported my needs, not only by making the gym accessible to myself and my carer, but by also enabling me to become their Sporting Champion.

“I am truly grateful and honoured.”

The wheelchair tennis open day is funded by the Dan Maskell Tennis Trust and will include access to specialist tennis wheelchairs and tailored coaching.

Blackbrook Leisure Centre, managed by Everyone Active in partnership with Somerset Council, has run a wheelchair tennis programme since 1994.

The programme has introduced many people to the sport and supported the development of top players, including Paralympian Lucy Shuker.

Mark Washington, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: “We’re passionate about making sport accessible for everyone – and that means creating exciting, inclusive opportunities for wheelchair users to stay active, learn new skills, and compete in a fun environment.

“Whether you’re curious to try something new or are looking for a fantastic way to boost your physical and mental wellbeing, wheelchair tennis could open up a new world of sporting possibility.

“We’re incredibly inspired by Nina’s journey into sport and encourage anybody who dreams of getting active in a supportive atmosphere to come along and try our free open day.”

The Sporting Champion programme supports emerging athletes by offering free access to Everyone Active centres, mentoring from elite athletes, and use of top training facilities.

To find out more or to book a place at the wheelchair tennis open day, call 01823 333435 or email tauntondisabilitytennis@gmail.com.