Real Tennis

Canford gives pupils a unique opportunity to play one of only 44 real tennis courts in the world. The court dates back to 1879, when it was built by Sir Ivor Bertie Guest, then Lord Wimborne.

The game of real tennis itself goes back to the days when monks played in their monastery courtyards in the 11^th century.

Today the court is actively used, by both Canford pupils and outside club members. Every pupil is given the opportunity to experience real tennis in their first year carousel sessions, they can then choose to play as a voluntary activity or occasionally as a main sport.

Pupils have a number of fixtures against other school, such as Radley, The Oratory and Wellington. There is also the exciting prospect of being selected for the National School Doubles Championships, with pairs involved across U14s, U16s and U18s.

We have a number of additional match opportunities throughout the year, such as the home and away fixture against The Hyde in Bridport. We also allow selected pupils to test themselves against our adult members.

Canford School is very fortunate to have two professional: Steve Ronaldson (Head Professional) and James Ryan (Senior Professional).

If you would like to play real tennis or find out more details about the club itself then please contact Steve or James at 01202 881232 or go to the club website:

Real Tennis Club Website

Both Real tennis professionals also coach squash at the school. The Real tennis court complex also boasts six squash courts and teams represent the school during the Easter term. Pupils can also play squash recreationally during their free time and through the activities programme.