The power of park tennis – Birmingham-based player bringing a community together at Cannon Hill
• 3 MINUTE READ
When Yaz Saleh rode her bike through a local park in Birmingham, she would not have expected that the tennis session she saw led by Carolle and Iman Tennis would transform her life.
Before that moment, Yaz hadn’t really played tennis and didn’t know much about the game. But after joining Carolle and Iman’s coaching session, this was the start of her tennis journey, which quickly became a significant part of her life.
Yaz now plays tennis at Cannon Hill Park, finding immense joy and benefit in tennis. The courts at Cannon Hill Park have recently undergone a full refurbishment, thanks to our Parks Tennis Project, which is bringing thousands of courts back to life for local communities, with support from the LTA Tennis Foundation.
Discovering a passion
"I started playing tennis after I saw Carolle and Iman coaching at a park while I was riding through it," Yaz recalls. "I asked if I could join in, and that's how I got started." What drew Yaz to tennis over other sports was the constant movement and individual challenge it presented. Tennis kept her continuously engaged and helped her focus better. "Tennis is fast and intense; it helps me concentrate because I want to win."
Tennis helps me stay fit and active with all the running and quick movements. Mentally, it helps me focus better, especially since I have ADHD.
Yaz's initial interest was sparked by seeing people play, but Carolle and Iman have become her biggest influences.
"They have patience, understanding, and a calming presence, which I like. They’ve helped me improve and manage my emotions better too."
Transforming challenges into triumphs
Yaz vividly remembers her first tennis lesson, where every missed ball made her angry, and losing was frustrating. However, the sport quickly became enjoyable as she learned new techniques and participated in fun tennis games like Queen of the Court and Jail Break.
"I enjoy being with people, winning, and learning new techniques. The satisfaction of focusing and hearing that I did well is incredible.
"Tennis helps me stay fit and active with all the running and quick movements. Mentally, it helps me focus better, especially since I have ADHD. It also helps me feel more relaxed."
Building a community
Yaz is most proud of organising tennis sessions for women and children at Cannon Hill Park. "I created a WhatsApp group called 'CHP Social Tennis.'
The group helps me stay organised, which is especially important for me. We play on weekends and weekday evenings, and many people have joined in. Seeing the ladies and kids having fun and playing tennis together is a great feeling.”
Her initiative has fostered a sense of community and expanded tennis opportunities beyond the usual sessions led by Carolle and Iman.
Life lessons through tennis
Tennis has taught Yaz valuable life lessons, such as patience, persistence, and the importance of breathing and taking breaks when things don’t go as planned. "Tennis helps me focus on my goals. I’ve also learned to be organized when I book sessions for myself and other players.“
Her most memorable experience was visiting the National Tennis Centre in London, where she played with Jack Draper and met other players.
"It was awesome because we went as a group and got to play ourselves, which I enjoyed more than just sitting and watching."
A unique and inclusive Sport
For Yaz, tennis is unique because it keeps her moving and requires quick thinking and constant focus. It also helps to bring people together.
"The local tennis community is very helpful and welcoming. The sessions I organise at Cannon Hill Park have shown me how much people enjoy playing together."
Refurbished park courts at Cannon Hill Park have delivered a huge benefit for the local community, making the game more accessible and attractive to new players.
"The courts look vibrant and lively, drawing people in to try tennis. It makes me feel happy to see the nicely done-up courts."
It’s never too late to start playing tennis. Tennis is for everyone!
Advice for new players
Yaz advises new players to have fun, stay focused, and keep practicing. "Stay positive, and you will love it, just like I do."
Reflecting on her tennis journey, Yaz wishes she had started playing as a kid to gain more experience. "But I know it’s never too late to start playing tennis. Tennis is for everyone!"
Through tennis, Yaz has built social connections and friendships that enhance her enjoyment of the game. "Playing tennis has helped me make friends who enjoy it as much as I do."
Yaz’s story illustrates the transformative power of tennis, showing how it can bring people together, promote physical and mental well-being, and create lasting community connections. Her journey from a novice to an organiser of community tennis sessions is a testament to the sport's inclusive and empowering nature.
