Borough’s Ukrainian community filmed for heart-warming sports documentary

Guests of all ages were filmed as they gathered to socialise and enjoy a day of tennis, thanks to a collaboration between the borough council, Sports England and Hinckley Tennis Club.

Throughout the year, the organisations have arranged a series of free tennis sessions for the district’s Ukrainian community.

The aim of the free sessions was to help Ukrainian guests integrate into their new surroundings, as well as to create a sense of belonging within the community. The sessions culminated in Saturday’s event, which also included a BBQ.

Guests to the celebration were also treated to a surprise (and unscheduled) appearance by TV star and presenter Gabby Logan, who had been attending an event next door.

Sports England filmed the event on Saturday to recognise the importance of these sessions, which symbolise unity, resilience, and the power of sports to bridge cultural gaps and enrich lives.

A delegation from Ukraine also attended to encourage interaction between the borough’s local community and its Ukrainian guests.

Executive Member for Housing and Community Safety at the Borough Council, Councillor Michael Mullaney, said: “This was a wonderful, heart-warming event to celebrate the strength and resilience of our wonderful Ukrainian community. Alongside Hinckley Tennis Club, we have been holding free tennis sessions throughout the year to help our Ukrainian friends to come together, socialise and integrate into the community. It was a joy to see so many smiling faces at this event – and a bonus to have it recorded by Sports England. Our thanks to everyone who has helped to make these sessions possible, and to our incredible Ukrainian community.”

Neil Roberts, from Hinckley Tennis Club, added: “It was the biggest turnout so far, with over fifty youngsters, adults and families enjoying some tennis coaching, a BBQ and just loads of fun and games.

“We also had in attendance a delegation from Ukraine, accompanied by Sport England, who came over especially to England to see how great community focused sports clubs work.

“And to top off an amazing day, we even had top sports presenter Gabby Logan pop in and hear about our excellent work in the community.

“We are so happy to put these sessions on. We have enjoyed this relationship up over a year now and are seeking to build on this with offering free membership rates at the club for those Ukrainian families that would like to take that up. This will help many continue to feel included in our community; a key vision of what we want to be as a community club.”