A DOLLAR tennis star has been shortlisted for a prestigious award in a national awards ceremony for her contributions on and off the court.

Emma Howat has been shortlisted for Young Person of the Year in recognition of her contributions both on and off the court at Dollar Tennis Club in 2021.

Her accomplishments also include striving to ensure that Wee County juniors can increase their involvement in tennis by creating opportunities for competitively play.

The shortlist, as part of for the Tennis Scotland Awards 2022, recognises the contributions of individuals, clubs, programmes, and competitions that played a key role in growing the game in 2021.

Casha McNab, Dollar Tennis Club secretary, told the Advertiser of the work Emma does at the club and how much she enjoys helping the next generation

She said: "Apart from being a very good tennis player, Emma worked tirelessly for the club through last season.

"She has shown a huge commitment to tennis.

"But it has been her incredible enthusiasm and love of children that has made her so popular with all ages in the club.

"Last year she coached but out of work hours constantly ran practices, club nights, tournaments, barbecues and several junior teams ranging in age from eight to 16, all on a voluntary basis.

"The kids just love her and as a result our coaching programme is full and many are learning a love of the sport.

"She is an exceptional young person and the club has been very indebted to her for all her efforts but mostly for her infectious enthusiasm."

In total, 24 nominees have been announced across nine separate categories, with the winners revealed online on Friday, April 29, prior to an awards ceremony at the Davis Cup taking place at the Emirates Arena in September.

The eventual winners will also secure a place at the LTA British Tennis Awards later this year.

Blane Dodds, Tennis Scotland chief executive, added: "As the governing body, we are really proud of the efforts made to grow our sport in 2021, with every member of the Scottish tennis community playing their part in the progression.

"The Tennis Scotland Awards provide the opportune platform to celebrate a small selection of the nation's many success stories and I would like to personally congratulate each of our shortlisted nominees on receiving national recognition."

Visit tinyurl.com/n3jv8det for more information on the Tennis Scotland Awards.