Donnybrook volunteering trio keeping courts pristine

Home to arguably the most pristine grass tennis courts in the South West, Donnybrook Tennis Club’s immaculate reputation is bolstered by the efforts of a dedicated grounds committee. Each member of the trio that makes up the committee play their part in ensuring the courts and club grounds are maintained to a very high standard all year round, and are shining examples of just how important volunteers are. Born and bred in Donnybrook, Chris Cain is one of the longest standing volunteers at the club, serving 25 years and maintaining the pristine grass courts. “Ever since I can remember I’ve been a volunteer, I have trouble saying no,” he joked. “Working a few different jobs around town I’m often time-poor but I still find the time to do it. Graeme Giudici has been a volunteer at the club for the past 10 years, four of those he has spent line marking. “For me it’s a bit of an outlet, once I get home from work I come up here and unwind a bit marking lines on the court,” he said. The groundsman’s all-rounder Brad Fowler echoes the sentiments of Mr Cain and Mr Giudici. “I volunteer because it’s free,” he laughed. “Volunteering is a small-community/town thing.”