WARRINGTON'S Coeyn Cassidy may not have lifted silverware on the manicured lawns of Wimbledon over the summer – but he still enjoyed an unforgettable experience at SW19.

Cassidy, 14, featured in the national finals at the Play Your Way to Wimbledon event – the largest individual mass participation tennis competition in the UK.

Thousands of 14 and under and 18 and under players took part in the qualifying stages this year, leading to county and regional finals in June and July, with the winners progressing to the national finals on Wimbledon’s Aorangi Courts in August.

Cassidy, who described Novak Djokovic as his tennis idol, did not reach the latter stages of the tournament – but was still thrilled to attend Wimbledon and revealed it was an experience he will never forget.

The Altrincham Grammar School for Boys student, who plays at Widnes Tennis Academy, said: “It means a lot because I’ve always dreamed of playing at Wimbledon, I’m pretty sure every player does. I picked up a racket before I was three!

“I was nervous for my first match. But when I got there, just the atmosphere and the vibe at the club completely took away my nerves and I loved it there.

“It’s been an amazing atmosphere, you’re treated as if you’re an actual professional player.

“I’d love to go back there if I was able to and play Junior Wimbledon and potentially even main draw Wimbledon - that’s a long shot away but it would be amazing.

“My friends and family are super proud of me.”

The competition looks to inspire the next generation of tennis talent; enabling players of all ages to follow in the footsteps of their heroes and compete for a chance to play on Wimbledon’s iconic courts.

Formerly known as the Road to Wimbledon, the competition is supported by Vodafone in partnership with the LTA and the All England Club, as a collective commitment to support grassroots tennis in the UK.

Play Your Way to Wimbledon, powered by Vodafone, is the UK’s largest individual mass participation tennis competition, providing recreational players of all ages and abilities the opportunity to compete at Wimbledon. The All England Club and LTA are proud to partner with Vodafone to expand the competition in 2024.