After-school tennis club
And he should know - he started at age four himself and went on to become a member of the national squad for two years.
Now Richard wants to encourage future talent and has set up after-school sessions on Monday afternoon at Alexandra Park in Hastings and Tuesday afternoon at Egerton Park.
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Hide AdFrom 4-5pm he coaches Year 3 children, aged between 7/8, and from 5-6pm, Year 4/5 youngsters who are aged around 8/10.
The clubs are supported by Andy Hodder and Sandra Pamplin of Hastings Sports Partnership and are open to any children who want to have a go.
Richard said: "The sessions are aimed at children who want to try but don't always get the chance, and don't want the commitment of having to join a club yet. It is funded by the Sports Partnership which means it is an inexpensive way to start up - it costs just 2 per session.
"The sessions are structured but the emphasis is definitely on fun. If they move on to a club they can have more technical coaching, but this is about letting them have a go first, getting them to hit as many balls as they can."
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Hide AdHe is now 25, but Richard himself started playing in Egerton Park at the age of four and went on to play at county level as a teenager. When he was 14 he become a member of the national squad but decided when he left school to concentrate on coaching.
"It has worked out really well - it's really good. I have had a couple of good mentors on the way which has helped a lot."
He now teaches at Bexhill and Hastings schools and is based at Laughton indoor centre which is near Ringmer.
With any questions about after-school clubs or to make bookings, contact Richard on 07525 172762, or email on wwwblt.vpweb.co.uk.