Coaching at SLTC
The club is deeply committed to the coaching and development of its players at every stage of their tennis journey. From beginners finding their confidence on court to experienced players refining their skills, there is a strong emphasis on quality coaching, continuous learning, and long-term progression. By investing in qualified coaches, structured programmes, and a supportive club culture, the club creates an environment where players can improve their game, build resilience, and develop a lifelong love of tennis.
Adult Group Coaching
Group Coaching sessions are run a couple of times a year for beginners, improvers and practis sessions for intermediate players.
See Below
Junior Coaching Academy
The Skerries Tennis Academy is run by our coach Jim Dolan. You can find more details on Skerries Tennis Academy Facebook page or contact Jim directly. Details below.
One to One Coaching
If you are interested in working one to one with a coach, you will find all details of our club coaches below. Individual coaching is ideal for working on a particular shot or improving an aspect of your game.
Club Group Coaching
Group Coaching can be booked through Acebooks.
The next programme will commence on August 31st.
BEGINNERS / IMPROVERS (TUES 6PM & THURS 10AM)
IMPROVERS MATCHPLAY DOUBLES (TUES 7PM)
INTERMEDIATE MATCHPLAY DOUBLES (TUES 8PM & THURS 11AM)
ADULT CARDIO TENNIS (FRI 6PM & SAT 9AM)
SINGLES MATCHPLAY COMING SOON
Our coaching programme is constantly evolving so watch out on Acebooks for more sessions being added.
Queries to Ciara C or Sarah Jane - coaching@skerriestennis.com
Meet the Coaches
The club is supported by a dedicated team of seven qualified coaches. Giving players the opportunity to build skills, confidence, and match awareness in a supportive and well-organised environment, while also creating a strong foundation for future teams and continued success on and off the court.
If you would like to organise one to one coaching with any of the coaches below please reach out directly or reach out to our coaching programme co-ordinator for advice.
Jim Dolan
086 276365
Jim Dolan is a Level 3 Tennis Coach with over 30 years of experience coaching juniors and adults across all levels, from complete beginners to competitive players.
His tennis academy offers both group and individual coaching, creating a supportive and enjoyable environment for players aged 4 through to adults.
Jim is particularly passionate about junior development, helping young players build not only their tennis skills but also confidence, discipline, and resilience.
Neil McDonald
087 6874502
Neil is a Level 3 qualified tennis coach with over 15 years of coaching experience in Ireland and Australia, including coaching at Kilkenny Tennis Club, in Sydney, and now at Skerries Lawn Tennis Club.
As a player, Neil competed at a high level in Irish tennis, representing both Ireland and Leinster, and winning both the Junior and Senior Irish Open titles. He works with players of all levels, from beginners discovering the game for the first time through to advanced and competitive players.
Alistair Kay
0876681267
Alistair is a full time fully licensed level one coach. He works with juniors and adults in Skerries and North Dublin.
Alistair has a particular interest in working with adult players, supporting them in developing the key fundamentals that allow for real progression of their game.
Through clear instruction and practical application, he helps players move towards more effective, confident, and winning tennis.
Maria Petina
0876705127
Maria Petina is a level one coach She was Tennis Coach Ireland's National New Graduate Coach of the Year for 2023
Her primary objective is to make tennis accessible to all, engaging with children and adults who have additional needs while simultaneously introducing tennis to people of all ages, communities and schools throughout Dublin.
Maria’s approach is centred on participation, progression, and creating positive experiences, ensuring that every player feels supported and encouraged in their journey.
Berna Furlong
0876681267
Berna is a qualified level 1 tennis coach Tennis has always been part of her life from being a junior in Riversdale Tennis Club, Glasnevin and then as a member of Skerries Lawn Tennis Club since 2000.
She currently coaches in the Parks tennis programme run by Tennis Ireland and is involved in the Skerries Coaching Academy ( run by Jim Dolan) and part of the Skerries LTC coaching team and junior programme.
Berna is a class 3 player. She played league for Riversdale as a teenager and has been playing league since she joined Skerries LTC.
Ciara KIngsnorth
0879892110
As former President of Skerries Tennis Club, Ciara has helped strengthen club culture, support member development, and foster a welcoming environment for players of all levels.
She is a Level One Tennis Coach, sharing her love for tennis through structured skill-building, positive reinforcement, and a focus on fun and growth.
As current Ladies Captain at Skerries Tennis Club, Ciara plays an active role in supporting and guiding players. She is committed to encouraging participation, supporting players in competition, and helping build a positive and inclusive environment.
Matthew Dowd
0879892110
Matthew is a qualified level one coach who has been an avid tennis player for over twenty years.
Matthew currently works between Skerries LTC, St. Annes Park LTC and Track Side LTC, as well as running School tennis programs.
He is a huge advocate for participation and inclusion, and having fun while playing tennis for all age groups and levels.
He is available for private and group lessons.
If you have a question about coaching
reach out our player development team at coaching@skerriestennis.com to get advice on the best coaching for you.