Seamus Shelly R.I.P.

Dublin Parks Tennis was saddened to learn of the passing of Seamus Shelly on Thursday 9th April. Seamus was one of the founding members and the first Chairperson of Dublin Parks Tennis.

 

Seamus, together with his son Tom, brought the concept of Parks Tennis to Ireland in 1977, with a vision to provide tennis coaching to children who may not otherwise get an opportunity to play tennis. Parks Tennis was set up as and remains a not-for-profit organisation.

 

The first Parks Tennis programme took place in July 1978. The concept was an immediate success, with 600 children participating at 6 venues in Dublin. Initially a summer only programme, under the leadership of Seamus and other founding members, Parks Tennis developed to provide tennis coaching all year round and expanded into more areas both in Dublin and nationwide. Almost 12,000 children participated across 55 locations in Ireland last year, thanks to the vision of Seamus and other founding members in 1977.

 

Dublin Parks Tennis would like to extend their sincere condolences to Tom and all the Shelly family at this very sad time. May Seamus rest in peace.