Every two years, Downe House Sport takes its budding tennis stars on an unforgettable journey to the picturesque Vale do Lobo in Portugal for a week-long tennis camp. This highly anticipated event is a key highlight in our sports calendar, offering Upper Fourth and Lower Fifth pupils the chance to hone their skills and bond as a team in preparation for the summer tennis season.
Nestled within a stunning resort, the camp strikes the perfect balance between intense training and luxurious relaxation. Each day is packed with tailored tennis drills, competitive practice matches against other schools, and expert coaching to refine techniques. With five star facilities and world-class coaches, players leave with improved confidence and game strategies to take into the upcoming season.
For Lorna, one of the 26 pupils selected to participate, the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Reflecting on the trip, she shared:
From the very start, every single one of us had an amazing time. The tour was incredible, whether it was the elite-level tennis coaching, delicious food, or the luxurious hotel. My personal highlight would have to be when we went down to the beach. We played games, chilled in the water, and laughed with our friends. This was a lovely and important break in between our intense but rewarding tennis sessions with the 5-star coaches.
Lorna, Upper Fifth
The week wasn’t just about improving on-court performance— it was also about camaraderie and creating memories that would last a lifetime. Lorna fondly recalled the efforts of Mr. Goodall, Miss Butler, and Miss Gibbons, who were instrumental in making the trip such a success:
This tour would not have been possible without the hard work of Mr. Goodall, Miss Butler, and Miss Gibbons, who made the trip unforgettable. They played cards, padel, and tennis with us, joined in with our jokes, and made sure that we were all safe and healthy. All of us have learned so much, and our tennis has improved dramatically because of it.
Lorna, Upper Fifth
Beyond the courts, the pupils enjoyed moments of relaxation, delicious meals, and the comfort of luxury accommodation—well-earned after the action-packed days. The beach games and group laughs added a touch of fun and freedom that perfectly complemented the focus and discipline of the camp.
As the week drew to a close, pupils returned with sharpened skills, stronger team spirit, and cherished memories. The Vale do Lobo tour is more than just a tennis camp—it’s a celebration of growth, teamwork, and the joy of sport.
Here’s to the next chapter of tennis triumphs, and to many more successful tours to come!
Beyond
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