Exeter Cathedral officially joined forces with two former professional tennis players on Monday 22 June to mark the upcoming start of Wimbledon 2026, launching an inspiring initiative aimed at making tennis accessible to children across Exeter.
The project is spearheaded by former British tennis professional and Exeter native, Penny Moor. As a member of the Board of Trustees for the Elena Baltacha Foundation (EBF), Moor is leading regional efforts to open up the sport to young people from all backgrounds, particularly those from areas that lack access to tennis facilities and competitive coaching.
The initiative connects local sporting development directly with international tennis heritage. Both Penny Moor and her close friend and fellow former professional, Trish Bostrom, are founding members of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA).
Bostrom, an American former professional, Pac-8 singles title winner and attorney, has spent her career advocating for female athletes. The collaboration highlights how the historic push for equality and fair pay in the professional game continues today through grassroots efforts to ensure every child has a fair chance to play.
To celebrate the launch, Exeter Cathedral hosted a purpose-driven promotional photoshoot on Cathedral Green. The event brought together tennis champions, local sports organisers and youth advocates to highlight the power of sport in building confidence, promoting wellbeing and maximising youth potential.
“I am delighted that this is the first combination of tennis advocates and a Cathedral joining together to promote the development of all youth, regardless of their economic status,” said Penny Moor. “Tennis has dramatically changed my life, so I am thrilled to be helping realise the vision of the Elena Baltacha Foundation in helping youth in the region.”
The South West expansion has found its regional home at Exeter Golf and Country Club (EGCC). Following the phenomenal success of EBF’s programmes across London – which have introduced thousands of children to the sport and nurtured young talent up to national levels – organisers are confident that the Exeter expansion will have a similarly transformative impact. The Foundation and EGCC are currently finalising the framework of what this accessible local program will look like. Led by Tennis Coach and Manager of Rackets, James Temple, EGCC will serve as the official hub for the Foundation’s local coaching programmes.
James Temple said, “We are incredibly proud to be named the South West home for the Elena Baltacha Foundation. This partnership provides us with a fantastic platform to help more children discover and develop a love of tennis. We are looking forward to delivering tennis sessions in local schools, and helping families explore the various options available across the region to continue their playing journey.”
The initiative strongly aligns with the core values of Exeter Cathedral, which continually seeks to create real-world opportunities for young people. Ella Barber, the Cathedral’s Youth Engagement Officer, endorses the project and its efforts to maximise community outreach and provide meaningful experiences for local youth.
The launch also marked a poignant moment for the Cathedral community. The promotional event was one of the final public appearances for The Very Revd Jonathan Greener, Dean of Exeter, who has championed community integration throughout his tenure and is scheduled to retire in July 2026.
“It was a real joy to be part of this project,” the Dean of Exeter said, “and of course to meet Penny and Trish. One of the Cathedral’s key objectives is to promote wellbeing for people of all ages – hence our desire to do our bit in helping youngsters develop a love for tennis. We wish this great initiative every success.”
Families, schools and community groups can find out more about getting involved on the Elena Baltacha Foundation website at https://elenabaltachafoundation.org/
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Photography: Emma Solley