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A-Level PE Visit to Queen's Tennis Club
Exploring the World of Real Tennis
Our recent A-Level PE trip to Queen's Tennis Club provided a unique opportunity to step into the historic world of Real Tennis, the predecessor to modern lawn tennis. Students were treated to a fascinating talk, followed by a chance to play this ancient and captivating sport.
A Glimpse into the History of Real Tennis
The visit began with an insightful talk about the origins and evolution of Real Tennis. We learned that this sport, sometimes called "the sport of kings," dates back to the 12th century and has been played by royals such as Henry VIII. The game combines elements of tennis, squash, and chess, played on an asymmetrical court with various walls and sloping surfaces.
The club's expert gave us a deeper understanding of the game's rich traditions, explaining the equipment, including the hand-made balls which they make at the club.
Stepping Onto the Court
After the talk, it was time to step onto the court and experience Real Tennis for ourselves. Under the guidance of Queen’s Tennis Club professional, we had a chance to practice serves, rallies, and ended with a game. It was our students' first time playing, and the learning curve was steep—but the sense of tradition and the thrill of trying something new made it an unforgettable experience.