It’s onward and upward for Barry Clarke, Director of Coaching for Ballymena Lawn Tennis Club, who has been selected as the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) Re-Tester for all of Ireland.
Founded in 1976, PTR is a recognised global organisation within the world of tennis with a mission to educate, certify and serve tennis teachers and coaches around the world in order to grow the game.
A local inspiration and encouragement to many young players, the Ballymena man completed his testing observation on Saturday (7 August) with Lead PTR Instructor and European Advisor, Andy Dowsett.
As a coach, educator and writer Andy is a trusted and reliable source in the world of tennis, and is one of very few tennis coaches to have gained his PTR Level 5 Master of Tennis Performance in 2017.
Commenting on Barry’s latest ‘win’, local Club Secretary Mary Goodwin said:
“Barry will now be overseeing observations for all those looking to upgrade their current international tennis coaching certification. Congratulations Barry!”
The much respected local tennis coach is always looking to work on his own development as he helps others in theirs, and this is the most recent achievement in the young man’s personal journey of striving to be his best.
Barry told Love Ballymena:
“To have an international coaching organisation like the Professional Tennis Registry recognise my knowledge as a tennis coach was incredibly humbling.
“I did my first qualification with PTR over 10 years ago and I have continued to add to my coaching knowledge each year in some capacity.
“I am looking forward to helping other coaches throughout Ireland improve their coaching, with the ultimate aim to inspire Ireland’s next generation of tennis stars.” Barry will continue his valued work of coaching at Ballymena Lawn Tennis Club, while also helping other coaches on the island of Ireland who are looking to upgrade, whether to instructor or tennis professional level.