Meet senior coach Gavin Mckinlay

Loughborough University undergraduate, Gavin Mckinlay, is entering his second consecutive year working for CMT Learning.

The Scotsman, who is currently completing his final year of his History and Politics degree, was a senior coach at the National Tennis Centre last summer and shall be returning to the same venue once again.

Gavin has been playing tennis since he was 10-year-old, competing for his home county of Buckinghamshire since a young age along with many regional and national events.

Currently holding a 1:2 rating the 22-year-old has coached young children through to adults for the past couple of years and as a qualified LTA level 2 coach he is currently working towards his level 3 which he hopes to be credited with by the end of this summer.

As tennis chair of Loughborough University’s tennis club, Gavin has a wealth of responsibilities and knows just what it takes to organise large events, be a team member but also a leader. He has competed in all men’s first team matches in BUCS League and Cup, and this year he helped the team gain promotion.

Along with Olivia, Matt and Guy, Gavin recently returned from MIT where Loughborough won the Transatlantic Varsity competition.

We are looking forward to welcoming Gavin back for another summer, and this is what he had to say about working at Nike Tennis Camps:

“The team atmosphere at camp is so great,” said Gavin. “Working with other great coaches and kids really makes the weeks enjoyable!”

 

So it’s Gav’s turn for a few quick fire questions, here is how he responded.

How old were you when you started tennis? "I was 10-years-old when I started tennis. My first tournament was at Chesham Bois."

What is it about tennis that makes you enjoy it so much? "I love the competitive aspect of the game, particularly during team events such as county cup."

What is your best achievement in tennis to date? "My greatest achievement was being made Buckinghamshire Men’s County Captain, that was a pretty good day. Gaining promotion this year with Loughborough wasn’t too bad either [laughs]!"

How long have you been coaching for? "I have been coaching for around five years!"

What is your favourite food, film and band? "My favourite meal has to be a steak, favourite film is definitely A Knights Tale, and favourite music is garage or anything 90s based…so basically cheesy music!"

What is your guilty pleasure? "Irn-Bru or sushi." 

Who is your favourite tennis player and role model? "Andy Murray, he’s Scottish which helps [laughs] and his work ethic and determination are pure class."