Active clubs are the key to the success and growth of any sport, and our affiliated clubs are at the heart of Irish tennis. At Tennis Ireland, we have monitored the major developments Ireland has undergone over the past 15 years and we know that the needs of Irish clubs and players have changed. A diversity of sports and hobbies have become available in recent years, putting pressure on tennis clubs to ensure that they still are major draw for people of all ages looking to keep physically and socially active. All stakeholders in Irish tennis must take these changes into account and plan accordingly if they are to maintain and develop their crucial role in the sport.

In response to developments in tennis internationally and within Irish sporting culture and society, there are three programmes in particular that we recommend all Irish tennis clubs should consider implementing. They are:
 
- Appointment of a Director of Tennis;
- The International Tennis Federation’s  'Play and Stay' Programme;
-  Construction of indoor courts.

 A successful tennis club is a club that can satisfy the needs of all its members of all ages, at all levels of ability. Our role at Tennis Ireland is to assist, advise and support our affiliated tennis clubs so that they can provide world-class facilities and activities to their members in 21st century Ireland. This Club Development Manual has been drawn up precisely with that aim in mind, and will equip clubs with the information and policies they need to grow and prosper in the future.