The Devon Tennis Awards 2026 took place on March 15, 2026, at the Exeter Golf & Country Club, celebrating the achievements of the county’s tennis and padel community. This annual event, sponsored by WBW Solicitors, recognized the exceptional contributions of clubs, coaches, volunteers, players, and teams dedicated to promoting tennis and padel across Devon.
Evening of Celebration and Recognition
Opening the evening, Max Goodison, Chairman of Devon Tennis, welcomed guests and presented the organization’s strategy and objectives for the coming years. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and development in enhancing the sport’s profile within the region.
Will McNally, Performance Manager for Devon Tennis, followed with a review of significant successes from 2025. He highlighted key initiatives that have contributed to the growth of tennis and padel, showcasing how these efforts have elevated participation levels and performance standards across the county.
Sharon Heeley, the LTA Head of Delivery for the South and South West, shared insights into ongoing national and regional development projects. Her presentation outlined the positive outcomes of these initiatives, underscoring their impact on local communities and the sport’s future.
A Night of Awards and Recognition
After a buffet supper, the awards ceremony commenced, led by David Vinall, Honorary President of Devon Tennis. Vinall presented awards to nominees and winners, celebrating their commitment, passion, and the positive influence they have had on the sport throughout the county.
A notable moment of the evening was the presentation of County Colours to the Devon Ladies 75s team. This award recognized their remarkable achievement in winning the County Cup Competition. The team triumphed over formidable opponents, including Middlesex, Surrey, Warwickshire, Kent, and Suffolk during the summer. They secured the title in the final against the Northern section winners in Southampton during autumn 2025.
The Devon Tennis Awards 2026 served not only as a celebration of sporting excellence but also as a reminder of the community spirit that drives the sport forward. The event highlighted the ongoing dedication and enthusiasm of everyone involved in tennis and padel in Devon, promising a bright future for the sports in the region.
