Nine pupils from Hurstpierpoint College took on an extraordinary challenge this February,听participating听in the听听to raise funds for the charity鈥檚 expanding听I Play 30听disability tennis programme.听
The fundraising effort reached its highlight on 22 February, when the pupils travelled to the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton for their听four hour听playing slot鈥攆rom 12pm to 4am. Throughout the night, they had the rare opportunity to rally with and compete against a lineup of current and former British tennis professionals.听
One of the standout moments came when pupils played alongside the world number one visually impaired tennis player. Wearing听sight limiting听goggles, they gained first-hand insight into the skill and adaptability听required听to play VIP (visually impaired tennis). The session offered pupils a meaningful understanding of accessibility in sport and the importance of inclusive opportunities.听
The group also took part in a wheelchair tennis workshop, working closely with specialist coaches on the distinct movement patterns, chair control and tactical adjustments involved in the sport. This hands-on experience proved both听eye opening听and inspiring, deepening pupils鈥� appreciation for the breadth of disability tennis.听
Hurstpierpoint College raised over 拢6,000, and Mr Harrison and Dr Blokland also completed a charity skydive on 21 March to help raise further funds. This remarkable effort听showcased听the pupils鈥� commitment,听resilience听and enthusiasm 鈥� not only for tennis, but for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.听
