Wonderful Women Interview with Judy Murray

It’s a huge honour to interview Judy Murray, renowned tennis coach, and mum to world champion tennis players Andy and Jamie Murray.

Aside from her own sons, Judy has coached a great many players at both regional and national level under the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA).  She won 64 titles herself in Scotland during her junior and senior career and is an inspiration to many.

Murray was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Edinburgh and a a second Honorary Doctorate from Aberdeen University. 

Judy Murray can be seen in the photo above, hosting a Junior Masterclass at David Lloyd, as part of her new role as Coach Consultant for David Lloyd Clubs.

To see the full range of David Lloyd Clubs facilities – www.davidloyd.co.uk.

 

Describe a typical day for you?

I don’t have a typical day! Every day is different for me – I’ve not had a typical day in about 20 years! I do different things every day. I do all sorts of things – not all tennis related, but I don’t have a typical day.

 

What do you feel are your biggest achievements?

I think I’m a good teacher, I’m a good organiser, I’m a good communicator. I think I have a big passion for what I do, which is tennis and teaching and I think that over the last 15 years I’ve tried very hard to raise the level of tennis across the country and also over the last 4 to 5 years, I’ve turned my attention to raising the level of coaching in the country.

My kids have both got to Number 1 in the world, they’ve both won grand slam titles, and Andy’s won Olympic titles.

I’ve learnt it all myself. I think I’m a good example that if there is a desire and a will and you work hard, then anything can happen.

 

What’s in your tennis bag?

Racket, balls, throw down lines, beanbags, balloons, hula hoops (not the ones you eat!), targets, bottle of water, usually some prizes for the kids, a tooter and a jacket – in case it’s raining!

 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

My partnership with David Lloyd Clubs is a 3 year contract of which I’m looking to raise both the level of tennis and increase participation amongst kids and families. Hopefully in 5 years’ time, there will be far more girls into tennis and sport and tennis will be as popular as ever!

 

What advice would you give a budding coach?

Try and find someone who’s really good at what they do, to work beside. The easiest to get really good at something is to work alongside someone who is excellent at what they do. The quickest way to learn is to work alongside someone who already has the experience. The most important thing is to be self-motivated and always open to improving yourself.

 

Finally, happiness is…?

Cake!