Coach: Declan Cropp 

Club: Tennis World Launceston 

Declan’s journey into tennis coaching began in 2020 and was a natural progression for him given his swim teaching background, his love of early childhood development and his higher education studies in health and physical education.

Coming from a multi sports background and having first started playing tennis at the age of 9, Declan’s passion for tennis is rooted in the sport’s inclusivity, where players of any age or ability are welcomed.

“As a coach there’s a lot of joy in seeing players progress, making new connections and helping to grow the sport. We do a bit of everything here at Tennis World Launceston with players from all over the Greater Launceston area – as well as families as far as the midlands (Whitemore to Campbell Town) – coming to Tennis World Launceston to play and learn tennis,” Coach Declan Cropp said.

Now finding himself as Centre Manager of Tennis World Launceston, Declan doesn’t find himself on court as much as he likes to be! He works alongside Lead Coach Ollie Hadley, to assist Ollie in his role of leading the coaching team. With Declan’s background of working with children and Ollie’s experience and skill working with players of a range of abilities, they are doing a great job promoting high quality coaching experiences that are consistent in fairness, quality and growth.

“The Hot Shots Tennis program would have to be my favourite as kids at any level can get involved. I also enjoy seeing the Tassie Junior League continue to grow as it provides access to the earliest form of competition tennis with guidance and practices of inclusivity,” he said.

“For anyone thinking about becoming a tennis coach, the best advice I can give is to do it because you’re passionate about tennis and want to help others. Also, know that you don’t have to be a high-level player to be a great coach.”

Beyond tennis, Declan enjoys swimming for its therapeutic qualities, running for simplicity and control, and watching the English Premier League to relax and admire the high level of skill on show.

If you’re looking for an ongoing coaching mentor partnership, feel free to contact Declan who also oversees a range of business operations for Tennis World Launceston.