Douglas Lawn Tennis Club launches centenary celebrations

Douglas Lawn Tennis Club has launched a programme of events and activities to mark its centenary year, celebrating 100 years at the heart of the local community and looking ahead to building a legacy for future generations.

The club has been a cornerstone of sporting and community life in Cork for a century. Throughout the coming year, members, past and present, alongside friends, supports and partners of the club, will come together to celebrate this significant milestone.

Speaking at the launch, Marc Khalifa, club president said: “This is a very special year for our club. As we celebrate 100 years of tennis, friendship and community, we are also creating opportunities to give back through charitable initiatives and to build a legacy for future generations."

“We are very proud of what has been achieved over the past century and are excited about what the future holds. 

"A central theme of our centenary celebrations is the club’s enduring connection with the wider community. Events will take place at the club’s facilities and at City Hall, reinforcing the important relationship between the club, our members and the local area.

“The spirit of volunteerism within our club has been extraordinary,” added Marc Khalifa. 

“Our centenary programme has been brought to life through the dedication and enthusiasm of volunteers who have given countless hours to organising events and initiatives throughout the coming year.

“Their generosity, hard work and shared love of the game, reflects the strong sense of community that has always been at the heart of Douglas Lawn Tennis Club.”

Community engagement

Club captain María Rueda highlighted the importance of youth participation and community engagement within the club.

“One of the greatest strengths of Douglas Lawn Tennis Club is the sense of belonging that exists across all generations. Our junior members represent the future of both our club and the sport in Ireland, and we are committed to helping them develop both on and off the court.

“The centenary celebrations are an opportunity to honour our history while inspiring the next generation of tennis players.”

As part of the launch, the club is delighted to unveil the winning design from its Junior Crest Competition, introducing a special centenary crest created with input from the club’s younger members.

“The response from our junior members was exceptional,” said María Rueda. “Their creativity, enthusiasm and pride in the club perfectly reflects the future we are building together.”

Excting initiatives

The official launch took place in a marquee erected on site and welcomed members, past and present, for an evening of celebration, featuring finger food, live music and the unveiling of several exciting centenary initiatives.

The club was also honoured to welcome Gerry Smyth, president of Tennis Ireland and Áine Dunne, president of Munster Tennis to the launch event.

“We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support of Tennis Ireland and Munster Tennis,” said Marc Khalifa. 

“Their encouragement and commitment to the growth of tennis in Ireland have been invaluable, and we are delighted to have them join us as we begin this landmark year.”

In keeping with this community spirit, the club is working closely with local businesses and partners throughout the year. Douglas Lawn Tennis Club extends its sincere thanks to its centenary sponsors and partners, including Clinigen, Lehane Motors, SAFIRA, Lanson, Babolat, McGuirks Golf, and Aksoy Jewellers, whose support has been invaluable.

Commenting on their sponsorship, Greg Skalicky, CEO of Clinigen said: “We’re proud to support Douglas Lawn Tennis Club as it celebrates its centenary, marking 100 years at the heart of the Cork community. We’re delighted to play a part in celebrating the club’s history and supporting the next generation of players in Cork.” 

Deserving charities 

The club is also proud that proceeds generated from several centenary events will support two deserving charities, Dogs for the Disabled and WTA Acing Cancer.

Highlights of the year’s celebrations will include:

Launch of a limited-edition illustration by local artist Susan from Sausy Pups.

Launch of exclusive centenary apparel.

Publication of a commemorative book by Barry Keane, celebrating 100 years at Douglas Lawn Tennis Club.

‘Courts and City Exhibition’, a photographic exhibition by renowned tennis photographer, Antoine Couvercelle at City Hall, Cork.

Launch of a premium 10-year Irish Whiskey, distilled by St Patrick’s Distillery.

Hosting Tennis Ireland inter-provincial competitions, junior tournaments and family competitions.

Centenary draw featuring 50 prizes, including a car sponsored by Lehane Motors, a diamond tennis bracelet from Aksoy Jewellers and tickets to Wimbledon.

Culture nights, reflecting the international nature of the club.

Centenary gala ball at the Rochestown Park Hotel.

For updates on all centenary activities follow Douglas Lawn Tennis Club on Facebook and Instagram.