Judy nets new fans at tennis Q&A
Judy Murray took part in an insightful question and answer session
Tennis fans from across Perthshire were treated to a question and answer session with Judy Murray this week.
Ollie Paisley, head coach at clubs including Darnhall, Kinnoull and Luncarty, managed to organise Monday evening’s entertainment on video application Zoom.
More than 40 interested spectators were able to pitch their questions to Great Britain’s former Fed Cup captain and mother of fellow sporting icons Andy and Jamie Murray.
“Judy had been doing a couple of these with coaches I know,”said Ollie.“I was inspired by it and thought I would contact her.
“I sent an email and she replied straight away to say that we’ll do it on Monday. We got it organised and it was just for the clubs I’m head coach at - Luncarty, Kinnoull and Darnhall.
“Everything was discussed and we wanted a good mix.
“There was everything from Andy and Jamie’s childhood in terms of tennis and even their homework!
“We also had questions on Judy’s highlights when it came to coaching and how to entice adults into tennis if they don’t want to be playing in competitions.
“It was a complete range, really broad. Some of the kids were asking about favourite foods and what meals to have before matches.
“Everyone had signed on before Judy arrived and there was a huge buzz. There were kids from age six and you can imagine their excitement.”
Members were quick to give their thanks both to Ollie for organising and to Judy for her insightful discussion.
“Everyone was messaging to say how they thought it was absolutely wonderful,”Ollie continued.“It’s really nice how humble Judy is.
“She talks so naturally. Obviously Jamie and Andy are her children, but they have been number one in the world in both of their disciplines.
“She absolutely loves tennis and we could’ve sat and talked to her all night. She really wants to connect the tennis community in Scotland.”
Tennis is on hold currently as Scotland awaits for the coronavirus lockdown to ease.
Ollie said:“I really hope there is a surge in tennis. Even doing that Zoom call, I hope that made people wake up the next day and say:‘I can’t wait to get back on the court’”.