Farewell to a legend

From Otley to Ilkley and, lucky for us, on to Thongsbridge, Georgina Jackson has achieved an incredible career on the courts of Yorkshire, the UK and beyond. Who would have thought a geography graduate would find so much success on 260 square metres of space?!

Georgina clearly found her skill set and comfort zone out on court, with over 27 years’ coaching experience, ranging from 3 years old to 80 plus! Whether a beginner or a promising performance player, George has a unique talent for combining the development of a skill set with enjoyment for a sport. Her results speak for themselves; achieving a number of international successes as well as creating so many social squads that are much respected and loved by members.

Having been involved with Yorkshire County teams for many years, George has coached and supported players, travelling all over the UK and winning multiple National U14 and U18 girls’ titles.

She has captained the Ladies’ National Aegon Team, which has twice reached the National Finals, and been one of the top eight teams in the country and the Yorkshire League team, which Georgina captained and played in, winning Division One.

Reaching the respected R2 Referee grade comes as no surprise. Many a parent will forever appreciate and respect (and thank!) Georgina for being the most organised, skilled and fair tournament referee, outperforming any we know! Her ability to plan, communicate and run tournaments, with a precision unique to George, has blown many of our minds over the years but for which we will all be eternally grateful! Thank you, George. The Yorkshire Tennis team certainly think so too, presenting Georgina with Official of the Year Award in 2021.

Now, with a bolt hole in Italy and Paul by her side, Georgina, much as we would love her to stay, has new ambitions and a whole new chapter to live. We’ll let you go George, as long as you pop back to see us every now and again and keep us posted of your international adventures!

Thanks for everything from all of us.

A snapshot of the sentiment from a few members…

“I first met Georgina on a grass court at Ilkley! Years later, she arrived at TTFC and has provided exceptional coaching to all those who have had the privilege to have been taught by her. She is well prepared, organised and knowledgeable. She even let me park my car on her drive when Sue and I went on holiday! A wonderful person who will be missed greatly.”
Denise Skelton

“I’ve loved the tactical lessons with Georgina. She has imparted interesting hints on how to play against the ‘lefties’! She’s amazing at teaching everyone, bringing forward individual strengths. She’s been here 14.5 years, coaching ladies pay and play and has always been enthusiastic and creative with her drills. Going to miss her so much.”
Jan Harker

“The true Trojan coach, who was always on the BALL! Will miss her dearly.”
Debbie Williams

“A coach extraordinaire, one time national award winner – ‘LTA coach of the month’, legendary tournament organiser and referee, Georgina will be sorely missed. I wish her every success and happiness in the next chapter of her life.”
Sue Linford

“The most patient junior coach, who brought out the best of my three-year-old! Some 10 years later, with lots of medals and trophies to reflect on, he continues to have tennis in his armour of navigating life skills as an ‘about-to-be’ teen. Thanks for all you have done to shape these young ones, George.”
Steph Mahon (parent)

“Georgina was fundamental in the development of Freddie and George’s tennis game. Not without an honest opinion, she encouraged a deep confidence and lovely style of play. We are so grateful to her for the time she spent with them on court and off, organising tournaments, with military precision. We will be sad to see her go and hope she continues inspiring people for the love of the game in her next role.”
Victoria Barraclough (parent)