Meet Havering Tennis Expert Giorgio Federico Bugnatelli

Meet Havering Tennis Expert Giorgio Federico Bugnatelli

At Raring 2go! we have managed to host a Q&A with Hyland Tennis’s Giorgio Federico Bugnatelli and we hope you enjoy this read!

1. What inspired you to become involved in community sports, and how do you believe they can help children develop confidence and life skills?

Growing up, I was passionate about playing tennis, but financial constraints made it difficult for me to join a club or afford the necessary equipment. Despite these challenges, my love for the sport only grew stronger. I made a promise to myself that if I ever had the opportunity, I would ensure that no child faced the same barriers I did. After achieving my coaching and management qualifications, I was determined to make tennis accessible to as many children as possible. I saw a latent demand in my local community, where many young people were eager to try out the sport.

Community sports, like tennis, offer more than just physical activity; they provide a platform for children to develop essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience, all of which are crucial for building confidence and achieving success in life.

2. Can you share a personal experience or story about how community sports have positively impacted a child’s life, perhaps someone you’ve worked with or mentored?

Coaching is akin to a peasant scattering seeds—while we can’t predict which ones will grow into trees, our role is to nurture every seedling. In tennis, a technically demanding sport, it’s not just about teaching the game but also about igniting a passion within each child. Committed coaches strive to kindle that hidden flame that will fuel their interest and keep it burning. Through this process, supported by their parents, children not only improve their self-esteem but also develop a lifelong habit of engaging in sports. This journey helps build resilience and confidence, essential life skills that extend far beyond the tennis court.

3. How do you balance your role as a government officer in finance with your passion for community sports, and what lessons from one field have you found applicable to the other?

I’ve been fortunate to have a supportive employer that allows me to pursue my passion for tennis alongside my career. Balancing these responsibilities has been a consistent part of my life for over 35 years. I believe that giving back to the community is just as important as receiving, and this mindset has guided my approach to both roles. The core values of the civil service—honesty, integrity, impartiality, and objectivity—have been integral to my work in developing and running Hylands Tennis Club. These values align perfectly with my community work, ensuring that I maintain a high standard of integrity and fairness in all that I do.

4. Can you share a specific example of how community sports have helped a child develop confidence or life skills, perhaps someone you’ve mentored or worked with?

At Hylands Tennis Club, we’ve been fortunate to see many young players grow into successful professionals. Notably, several of our former junior members have gone on to become doctors, captains in the Royal Marines, teachers, police officers, and scientists. One inspiring example is a young person who started as a tennis leader at Hylands, earned coaching qualifications, and eventually secured a role as an event coordinator at Wimbledon. This journey demonstrates how sports can open doors beyond the court, providing valuable skills and experiences that benefit individuals throughout their lives.

5. How do you think community sports can help address broader societal issues, such as inequality or social isolation, particularly in the context of Havering?

Sports, in general, play a vital role in keeping children and young people safe and engaged, away from potential negative influences. Beyond physical health, sports participation boosts self-esteem and helps build a strong social network. The skills learned through sports—such as teamwork,communication, and resilience—are highly transferable to adult life, contributing to personal and professional success. Community sports are uniquely inclusive, transcending barriers like race or social status. They focus on engaging local individuals and fostering a sense of community among like-minded people. By investing in sports, we create a win-win situation that benefits not only the participants but also the wider community.

6. What advice would you give to parents who are considering enrolling their children in community sports programs, and how can they support their child’s journey in sports?

When considering enrolling your child in a community sports program, it’s essential to take a close interest in their development. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Check the Club’s Registration: Ensure the club is a registered venue with the relevant governing body, such as the LTA for tennis and that they have up to date safeguarding policies including a Welfare Officer.

2. Coach Accreditation: Verify that coaches are accredited and qualified to teach children.

3. National Guidelines: Confirm that the coaching programme follows national guidelines, such as the LTA Youth program for tennis.

4. Playing Opportunities: Look for clubs that offer adequate playing opportunities to help your child develop their skills.

5. Welcoming Atmosphere: Lastly, visit the club to see if the atmosphere feels welcoming and supportive. A positive environment is crucial for your child’s enjoyment and growth.

6. By focusing on these aspects, you can ensure your child has a safe, engaging, and rewarding experience in sports.

7. How do you envision the future of community sports in Havering, and what role do you see Hylands Tennis Club playing in that vision?

I hope that our local authority will continue to support and promote community sports, even during challenging financial times. Clubs like Hylands Tennis Club serve as beacons for local sports provision, and their success can inspire others. On our part, we will continue to ensure that our fees are balanced with the need to remain sustainable. This approach allows us to maintain our commitment to providing accessible sports opportunities while ensuring the long-term viability of the club. By doing so, we aim to continue fostering a vibrant sports community in Havering.

8. What advice would you give to young people who are passionate about sports but might be facing obstacles or challenges in pursuing their dreams?

When young people face obstacles in sports, the approach depends on the nature of the challenge. If financial constraints are the issue, involving parents can be crucial for support. For those struggling with slower-than-expected progress, this can be an opportunity to build character and resilience. A key aspect of development, not just in tennis but in all pursuits, is cultivating self- awareness about the importance of consistency and self-discipline. Success rarely happens overnight; it requires time, effort, and perseverance. By understanding this, young athletes can better navigate challenges and stay committed to their goals.

9. Looking back on your journey, what do you hope your legacy will be in terms of community sports and the impact you’ve had on young people’s lives?

If my efforts can touch lives and inspire others, that would be a truly rewarding outcome. My ongoing commitment is to continue doing my best and ensuring that the work I do leaves a sustainable legacy for future generations. By focusing on creating a lasting impact, I hope that my contributions to community sports will continue to benefit young people long after I’m gone.

10. Is there a message you’d like to share with the readers of Raring2Go!, particularly families and children in Havering who might be interested in getting involved in community sports?

We’re fortunate to live in a borough like Havering, which offers endless opportunities for sports and activities. From schools to parks and open fields, there’s something for everyone. Clubs like Hylands Tennis Club play a vital role by providing a safe space where children can learn new skills, make friends, and boost their self-esteem. I want to express my gratitude to Raring2Go! for their excellent work in raising awareness about these opportunities. Their efforts help connect families with local activities, fostering a vibrant community that supports the growth and development of young people.

For more great insight into local clubs & classes you can (click here)