It is with great sadness that we bring news of the death of Clive Rippon MBE.
Clive served as a volunteer at Essex Tennis for over 50 years, acting with selfless devotion and insight.
He was Honorary Secretary and Council member of Essex Tennis from 1974 to 2021 and LTA Council member from 1976-81 and again from 1989-2013. He served on a number of LTA Committees, including the National Tennis Facilities Board (1995-2000), Loans (1995-2000), County & Club Development (1998-2000), National Tennis Development Board (2001-2003), Funding (2001-2003), National Tennis Advisory and Scrutiny Board (2005-2011) and the Reform Project Group (2007-2011). His major contribution to tennis saw him awarded an MBE, truly deserved.
Clive was the driving force behind the Essex Tennis AE loans and grants scheme, that has enabled clubs in the county to develop and improve their facilities and coach education. He was instrumental in securing our Essex Tennis office space and dedicated court time at Redbridge together with indoor courts at The Deanes School, The Essex at Earls Colne and Harlow. He was also the initiator of our Partnership funding which has raised well over £2 million for Essex Tennis.
He stepped down from the Board 2 years ago but remained active as our Liaison Officer and sat on our Finance, Performance and Governance Committees and was central in the lead up and execution of our move to CIO status and establishment of our new Board of Trustees.
Clive was truly extraordinary and it was his drive and entrepreneurial spirit which has enabled tennis in Essex to thrive for decades. Clive was the heart and soul of Essex Tennis and will be missed by all that knew him.
We send our condolences to Clive’s wife Kay and his family and friends.
Funeral Arrangements to follow