WHEELCHAIR TENNIS - Special Helpline: Freephone 0800 034 0294

Wheelchair tennis was founded by Brad Parks in 1976 and there are presently 58 member nations comprising the International Wheelchair Tennis Association, with over 100 events worldwide on the wheelchair tennis tour.

The sport can be played on regular tennis courts using the same rackets and balls, the only modification to the rules being that the ball can bounce twice. It is even possible for wheelchair players to compete against able-bodied players. People with a medically diagnosed, permanent physical disability resulting in significant loss of function in one or both legs are eligible to play wheelchair tennis.

Those wishing to try wheelchair tennis need not have a sports wheelchair to start; the addition of straps around the waist, knees and/or ankles improves stability. Tetraplegics and quadriplegics can play by strapping the racket to their hand.

Tennis coaches with no experience of wheelchair tennis can take advantage of support material produced by the International Tennis Federation. For younger participants, the ITF runs a Junior Wheelchair Tennis Programme.