A tennis centre and an orphanage in Ghana

Hi my name is Luke. I am fundraising for a tennis centre and orphanage in Ghana. In aid of these amazing causes, I am running an American doubles tournament for club members at my local tennis club. The fee for each player on the day is £12. However other members at my wonderful tennis club can feel free to donate with whatever they wish to give, as all the money I get will go to these causes. So, if what I say below touches you or strikes a cord and you feel moved to give then I will gratefully appreciate it and my friends in Ghana will appreciate it even more than I would!

I went to this wonderful country last summer, it was a great experience and very humbling at the same time! I know how grateful the people out there will be for all the help they can get as it has fallen on tough times with the recession, like has been the case across the Globe.

For example when I helped there with voluntary tennis coaching, I could see how much the facilities needed improving. Such as the courts being smoother, better tennis nets and tennis balls being needed. Also, there was only one tennis mini net; there needed to be more to make use of the space and to be more fun for the children. The area got overcrowded with children at times, which hampered the younger players and older players. There was some older academy players there who I really rated and had real potential. There was an international tournament whilst I was there that attracted players from various places in the World. For me personally Ghana had a real impact for me, I was excited before I went and I felt like I left part of my heart there. Therefore it is always a pleasure and honour telling people about this beautiful country. From the bottom of my heart I would love to see tennis in Africa particularly in Ghana grow and get more support, that children get the opportunity to chase their dreams over there and continuing what they love like those fortunate enough to be funded over here in England.

As for the handful of times I went to the orphanage I made friends with a wonderful lady who works there as a Director, alongside her staff. They provide a safe place, where the children can be fed and watered, get educated and have fun along the way! The children were really great and I had so much time for them. The children and workers were so warm towards me, it has had a lasting effect on me.

I can say this wholeheartedly coming from a privileged country, that Ghana is so incredibly friendly and the people are a real breath of fresh air! I will not forget my time there and the people, that’s for sure.

If you have any questions or want to talk to me more about Ghana and my time there then please do approach me on the matter. I could talk longer on this, thank you so much for reading. I appreciate you all, and I’ll see many of you soon!