A SMASHING sporting event in Greenock will help people across Inverclyde find out if they have any aces up their sleeves.
Ardgowan Tennis Club is running an open day on Sunday, September 8.
The organisation's new head coach Dylan Crawford said the event will serve up activities aimed at giving people the chance to try out all aspects of the racquet sport.
Dylan, 23, is spearheading a new coaching programme at the club and is looking forward to seeing people of all ages heading to the Union Street courts next weekend to give the sport a shot.
He said: "It will be a great opportunity for people to find out what tennis is all about.
"We will have activities for people of all ages and everything is free of charge.
"It's all about helping people familiarise themselves with the sport."
Youngsters aged five and above should head along from 10am-1pm, and there will be a cardio class for adults from 1-2pm.
Dylan, who is self-taught, started playing when he was 15 and has been coaching since the following year.
He recently won the Greenock and District men's singles competition for the first time, and said he enjoys being a good role model for youngsters just starting out.
Dylan said the club is building up its coaching programme from scratch again as it hasn't offered sessions for a few years.
He added: "We run team tournaments, league tournaments, and kids competitions.
"It's a great club to be part of and this is a really exciting time for us."
The club will be offering special prices for the first block of sessions due to start in the second week of September.
Dylan is planning to run classes for primary and secondary school youngsters, an adult beginners class, and a separate cardio class for adults.
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He said sports stars like Emma Raducanu and Andy Murray have helped more people fall in love with tennis in recent years.
The skilful server said the best part of his role is watching the improvement in young players.
Dylan added: "I think the competition aspect is very appealing to kids.
"I love seeing youngsters getting involved and seeing them progress.
"It's amazing to see how much they can improve if they work hard and play every day."
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