For nearly 30 years, Theo Blaauw has been a dedicated tennis coach, shaping young players and fostering a love for the sport.
Theo, who is a coach at Parkrand Tennis Complex, began coaching almost by chance after finishing school and finding himself uncertain about his future.
“After matric, I didn’t know what I wanted to do.
“I decided to pursue tennis, did a few coaching courses, and some of the members at the club where I played asked if I could coach their children. That’s how it all started.”
Today, Theo is a full-time coach, mostly focused on developing junior talent, although he also enjoys the challenge of working with adult players.
“Coaching kids and coaching adults are two different things.
“With kids, you’re laying the foundation for their future in the sport.
“With adults, it’s more about refining skills and understanding the nuances of the game. Every player is unique, and the challenge is helping them be the best they can be,” said Theo.
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For him, tennis is more than just a game; it’s a lifelong passion.
“Tennis coaching is like any other job. I love working with people and especially with kids. It’s rewarding to see them develop not just as players but as individuals.”
One of the common questions Theo receives from parents is about the right age for children to start tennis lessons.
“It really depends on the child. The youngest I’ve coached was five years old, but every child is different.
“The key is to introduce them to the sport in a way that keeps them engaged and excited.”
He believes that tennis offers numerous benefits for young players beyond physical fitness.
“Tennis is a sport for a lifetime. It helps with fitness and cardio, and it keeps kids away from their screens, which is so important in today’s world.”
For those interested in joining the Parkrand Tennis Complex, Theo encourages them to reach out.
“We have great members here. We’re united in our love for tennis and committed to helping each other grow as players.”
To inquire about lessons or to join, contact chairperson Andries Fourie at 082 823 4718 or Theo on 083 453 5638.
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