Auto Amazon Links: No products found.
Despite a remarkable age gap of 66 years, David McCandless and his doubles partner Liam have formed a successful tennis duo. The 80-year-old and the 14-year-old joined forces two years ago, and their collaboration has been highly effective ever since. Their team has won more than half of the matches they’ve played in the North West of Ireland league, improving steadily after working through initial challenges.
Liam shared insights about their early matches, explaining how they initially struggled to coordinate their court positions. “We started on court and it was a case of who is going to go where,” he said. “Then after a couple of matches we started winning because we realised we got a system down and we realised we are a pretty good duo.” Reflecting on the formation of the team, David described it as “purely by accident” but acknowledged that the partnership has “worked out very well indeed” over the past two years. He praised Liam’s talent by saying, “He’s a very strong young junior and I think he will be a top class player.”
David’s tennis journey began at the same age as his current partner, and he remains passionate about the sport. Playing tennis up to four or five times a week, he believes that his experience can complement Liam’s formal coaching and natural skill. David noted, “He got coaching from a young age which I never got. I wouldn’t have the same ability in playing the correct shots. I’m just self-taught.” He also emphasized how their strengths balance on the court: “I do have a bit of experience and I do think that I can help him as regards how to move on the court at times. And he knows what I’m capable of and he covers for me at other times.” Liam similarly appreciates David’s steadiness and knowledge, saying, “He’s a solid player and consistent and I’ve learned a lot from him playing in the league.”
On the broader community level, a spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council acknowledged the positive impact local tennis clubs make to the sport. They explained that the council is aware of some concerns about the condition of tennis facilities and has engaged with the club, Tennis Ireland, and Sport NI to investigate funding options for improvements. The spokesperson insisted that the current provision of tennis courts in the city was sufficient “based on existing capacity, usage levels and booking demands.” However, while the city technically has numerous courts — four at Waterside Shared Village, six at St Columb’s Park, and two at Clooney Park West — their condition tells another story. For example, the St Columb’s Park courts have been closed all summer awaiting a safety review, and the Clooney Park tarmac courts are reported to be in poor shape. Meanwhile, the Waterside Shared Village courts are showing signs of aging even down to the faded line markings. Yet despite these challenges, the local tennis club continues to grow, with pairs like David and Liam exemplifying the sport’s appeal across generations
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.