A WEE COUNTY woman has been shortlisted for a prestigious tennis award alongside others from Forth Valley’s tennis community.

The sport’s national governing body has selected a local coach, official, volunteer and the University of Stirling as finalists for four of the most coveted awards in Scottish tennis.

Tennis Scotland Awards 2021 has unveiled its shortlist for this year, recognising the contribution of individuals, clubs, programmes and competitions which played a key role in helping tennis to thrive last year as participation continued to grow across the nation.

Clacks resident Olwyn Roy is in the running for Official of the Year, an award which celebrates referees, umpires and court supervisors who have gone above and beyond their role since Covid-19 restrictions were introduced.

Blane Dodds, Tennis Scotland chief executive, said: “The response of the tennis community played a pivotal role in enabling the safe resumption of tennis in 2020. 

“This year, more than ever before, it feels important to acknowledge exceptional contributions which are being made within our sport.”

Blane continued: “The Tennis Scotland Awards provide the perfect platform to celebrate the success stories of the year. 

“With nominations of a particularly high standard, each shortlisted nominee should be very proud of their achievement.”

Furthermore, acknowledging innovative attempts to ensure students of all abilities could continue to develop throughout lockdown in 2020, the University of Stirling received shortlisting for the highly desired Education award. 

The university has been commended for online fitness provision and interactive coaching workshops for students, before also establishing a safe process for performance players to return to the National Tennis Centre.

James Blair of University of Stirling Tennis Club has also been shortlisted for the Volunteer of the Year award which recognises an outstanding voluntary contribution made to inspire others to participate in the sport.

As a reward for providing a performance programme which supported players throughout 2020, Adam Brown of Bridge of Allan has earned a place on the prestigious Performance Coach of the Year shortlist.

In total, 27 nominees have been announced across 10 separate categories, with the eventual winners subsequently securing a place at the LTA British Tennis Awards. 

Winners of the Tennis Scotland Awards will be announced online on April 23, with a ceremony to be held at a later date.