Tennis Connacht celebrates a landmark moment as one of its own, Gerry Smyth, takes up the role of President of Tennis Ireland. A proud member of Galway Lawn Tennis Club, Gerry brings with him a lifetime of dedication to the sport and a passion for growing tennis at every level across the island.
Growing up in Kells, Co. Meath, Gerry discovered tennis at Kells Tennis Club on the outskirts of the town. That experience has shaped his outlook on the game and his belief in its potential. “Things are changing all the time with the visibility of tennis in Ireland,” he says, and it is with that conviction that he steps into the presidency.
An accomplished Masters tennis player, Gerry has represented Ireland internationally — a testament to his commitment to the sport not just as an administrator, but as a competitor. Now, as President, he is eager to bring that same energy to clubs the length and breadth of the country. He has pledged to hit the road and visit as many clubs as possible during his two-year term, meeting members, listening to their stories, and helping to drive the positive work that has characterised recent years at Tennis Ireland.
Gerry succeeds outgoing President Letty Lucas of Ulster and Downshire Tennis Club, who completes a highly regarded two-year term. Letty reflected warmly on her time in the role, , paying particular tribute to the Tennis Ireland staff and highlighting the exceptional way the team works together, to give everyone the game of their life. Her final engagement as President was the Tennis Europe AGM in Gdansk, a fitting conclusion to a term marked by dedication and progress.
Kevin Quinn, Tennis Ireland Chief Executive, noted, “During her term Letty made such apositive impact on tennis in Ireland, visiting many Clubs and representing Tennis Irelandso well, both nationally and internationally. We thank her for her huge contribution as President over the last two years. Equally, we’re delighted to welcome Gerry from Tennis Connacht as Tennis Ireland’s new President. I know Gerry will make a significantcontribution to increasing awareness and positivity of our great sport, and look forward to working with and supporting him over the next two years.”
Tennis Ireland Chair Ronan Reid added: “Having known and respected Letty for over sixteen years, I’ve seen first-hand the dedication and integrity she brings to everything she does. Her time as President has been no exception. She has left a real and lasting mark on tennis in Ireland. It is also with great pleasure that I welcome Gerry from Tennis Connacht as our new President. His commitment to growing our great game is well known and I look forward to working closely with him as we continue to build momentum and positivity around Irish tennis in the years ahead.”
As a new chapter begins, Tennis Connacht, Tennis Ireland and the wider tennis community look forward to what promises to be an active, visible, and community-focused presidency.
