Gloucestershire Tennis Welcomes New Men’s Captain Jasper Richardson
Gloucestershire Lawn Tennis Association (GLTA) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jasper Richardson as the new Men’s Captain for our county team, succeeding Ben Knapp. Ben, a cherished leader and mentor in our tennis community, has decided to step down after many years of dedicated service. His contributions have been invaluable, and we are confident that Jasper will continue his legacy with the same passion and commitment.
Proven Track Record of Success
Jasper Richardson has been an integral member of the Gloucestershire team for several years, consistently showcasing exceptional skill and dedication. With a remarkable performance of 11 wins out of 12 at last year's Summer County Cup and an undefeated streak at the previous Winter County Cup, Jasper has proven to be a key player and a reliable asset to the team. His contributions go beyond personal achievements; he has often stepped up to assist in leadership roles, notably as part of the Leadership Team during this year's Summer County Cup, where Matt Morrow led the team.
Leadership Experience
Beyond his contributions to the county team, Jasper has demonstrated outstanding leadership abilities at various levels. As the captain of the University of Surrey Men’s first team, he led the team to an unbeaten season, clinching both the league title and the South East Cup. His tenure as President of the university club further solidified his leadership credentials. Additionally, his pivotal role in Windsor Tennis Club's promotion to the National League and participation in the NPL finals underscores his capacity to inspire and lead teams to victory.
A Unique Perspective
What sets Jasper apart is his unique journey within the team. Having experienced the roles of a fringe player, a regular team member, and often the top player, he possesses a deep understanding of the diverse perspectives within the team. This empathy and insight equip him to make fair and transparent decisions, fostering a cohesive and motivated squad.
Vision for the Future
As Men’s Captain, Jasper is committed to building on the solid foundation laid by Ben Knapp. He aims to maintain the professional and fun atmosphere within the team, emphasising the importance of the "BRAT" mentality—Believe, Ruthless, Always Trying, a mantra Ben introduced. One of his key goals is to enhance team spirit and professionalism through improved team kits, recognising the pride and unity that come with representing Gloucestershire.
A Passion for Tennis
Tennis has always been a central part of Jasper’s life, and his passion for the sport is evident in his dedication and achievements. He is eager to give back to the county that has been a significant part of his journey and is determined to make Gloucestershire a well-organised, professional, and high-performing team that also knows how to enjoy the game.
GLTA is confident that Jasper Richardson's leadership will inspire our team to new heights, honouring the legacy of Ben Knapp while forging a path towards future successes. We look forward to a bright and exciting era under his captaincy.
