This prestigious award recognises Oxstalls' unwavering commitment to making tennis more inclusive and accessible through its diverse and innovative range of programmes including wheelchair tennis, visually impaired tennis, special educational needs sessions, and walking tennis.

We are so pleased to have won the Tennis Opened Up award. It is a real feather in the cap for our Oxstalls Tennis Team and testament to their hard work and the opportunities they are providing to the people of Gloucester. The positive impact our Tennis programme is providing for our customers is the greatest outcome and a fantastic example of how we can continue to improve lives through leisure.

Nick Charlton

Freedom Leisure Area Manager

In addition to the centre’s recognition, two outstanding athletes who are Oxstalls Sport Park members have been honoured for their remarkable performances and dedication to the sport:

Will Barton – Winner of the Mary Eyre Award. Will has competed in International Tennis Federation tournaments across Europe and is ranked in the top 20 of junior wheelchair tennis.

McKenzie – Highly Commended for the Mary Eyre Award. Mckenzie also competes in the International Tennis Federation tournaments across Europe and is a Welsh National Junior Champion.

Will and McKenzie’s achievements reflect their dedication, resilience, and passion for the sport. Both players are also part of Freedom Leisure’s Talented Athlete Scheme, which offers athletes competing at a national level free access to Freedom Leisure facilities to support their training.

We’re absolutely delighted to see Oxstalls Sports Park win the Tennis Opened Up Award. This worthy recognition highlights their outstanding efforts to break down barriers and ensure tennis is accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability or background. Their continued commitment to the community is truly inspiring and sets a fantastic example of what inclusive sport should look like.

Helen Williams

Gloucestershire Tennis Awards Lead

At Gloucester City Council, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to participate in sport and physical activity, so I am incredibly proud of this achievement. This is fantastic news for Oxstalls and a testament to the dedication of everyone who works there. I would also like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Will and McKenzie for their outstanding success, as well as their unwavering hard work and commitment.

Louisa Davies

Head of Culture and Leisure at Gloucester City Council

Oxstalls Sports Park was also shortlisted for Sports Venue of the Year 2025 for the SO Glos Gloucester Lifestyle Awards, further highlighting the centre’s positive impact on the local community and its commitment to providing high-quality sports facilities.

For more information about Oxstalls Sports Park, please visit www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/oxstalls or call 01452 396969.