Human Connector Tennis is a community pilot created for people of different ages, abilities, neurotypes and life experiences, including complete beginners.

The programme combines tennis initiation, movement, group activities and social connection in a welcoming, flexible and encouraging environment.

The purpose is not only to introduce people to tennis, but also to support confidence, wellbeing, participation and a sense of belonging.

The first children’s programme includes:

•⁠ ⁠four structured group sessions adapted to age and ability;
•⁠ ⁠movement and coordination activities;
•⁠ ⁠introduction to racket and ball control;
•⁠ ⁠basic tennis skills taught through play;
•⁠ ⁠confidence-building activities;
•⁠ ⁠a friendly mini-tournament;
•⁠ ⁠a social activity for children and families.

The mini-tournament will take place after the first four sessions so that children visiting Maramureș during the summer can complete the programme before returning home.

The tournament will be adapted to each age group. For younger children, it will include playful challenges, coordination activities and simple tennis games rather than elimination matches.

The focus will be participation, encouragement and enjoyment.

Mini Tennis — ages 3–5

Play, movement, balloons, coordination, rolling and catching the ball, colourful cone activities and first contact with the racket.

Parents or guardians remain nearby and may participate during some activities.

Kids Tennis — ages 6–9

Movement, coordination, ball control, simple strokes, racket activities, games and introductory tennis challenges.

Junior Tennis — ages 10–14

Movement, coordination, forehand and backhand foundations, controlled rallies, serving practice and point-based games.

Adults

Adult sessions will be organised according to experience and availability.

The programme may include:

•⁠ ⁠tennis initiation;
•⁠ ⁠structured group practice;
•⁠ ⁠individual sessions;
•⁠ ⁠Social Tennis;
•⁠ ⁠friendly matches and community events.

Access to sport should not depend on financial circumstances

Human Connector Tennis offers a limited number of free sponsored places for:

•⁠ ⁠children with disabilities or additional support needs;
•⁠ ⁠autistic and neurodivergent children;
•⁠ ⁠children from families experiencing financial hardship;
•⁠ ⁠children facing social disadvantage;
•⁠ ⁠children who might otherwise have limited access to sport and community activities.

Places may be offered following a confidential recommendation from:

•⁠ ⁠a school or teacher;
•⁠ ⁠a social worker;
•⁠ ⁠a local authority;
•⁠ ⁠a town hall or municipality representative;
•⁠ ⁠a community organisation;
•⁠ ⁠another trusted professional supporting the child or family.

No child will be publicly identified as receiving a sponsored place.

All referrals and personal circumstances will be treated respectfully and confidentially.

Sponsored places are subject to availability and to our ability to provide a safe and appropriate level of support.

Schools, local authorities and community organisations wishing to recommend a child are warmly invited to contact Human Connector directly.

Button: Recommend a child / Apply for a sponsored place

Participation may include:

•⁠ ⁠court access;
•⁠ ⁠age-appropriate activities;
•⁠ ⁠structured group organisation;
•⁠ ⁠tennis balls;
•⁠ ⁠children’s rackets when required;
•⁠ ⁠movement and coordination games;
•⁠ ⁠introduction to basic tennis skills;
•⁠ ⁠participation in the mini-tournament and social activity for children enrolled in the four-session programme.

Participants should wear comfortable sports clothing, suitable trainers and bring water.

Learning through participation

With clear consent, anonymised participation insights and feedback may help Human Connector understand how sport, movement and shared experiences can support human connection and social inclusion.

Participation in feedback or research activities will remain optional.

Personal information will not be publicly shared and will be handled respectfully and confidentially.