Tennis Club treasurers across the Republic of Ireland are celebrating as government grants totalling over €582,000 have been disbursed by Tennis Ireland under the Sports Energy Support Scheme (SESS).
The SESS, designed to help clubs cope with the rise in energy costs during the Winter of 2022-2023, has supported 85 tennis clubs nationwide. Funding was distributed over two phases—Phase I and Phase III—with all payments now completed.
Kevin Quinn, CEO of Tennis Ireland, stated:
“With tennis no longer just a Summer, outdoor activity, it is essential to help our clubs manage the increased costs of staying active year-round. This substantial funding not only eases the financial burden but highlights the importance of energy sustainability for our clubs. We extend our gratitude to the Government and Sport Ireland for their partnership in addressing this critical issue.”
The funding was allocated based on proven energy costs incurred between September 1st, 2022, and March 31st, 2023, compared to pre-pandemic figures from 2019–2020. Payments ranged from small awards due to adjusted bills during COVID-19 to substantial sums exceeding €30,000.
Highlights:
- Over €500,000 awarded in total.
- 85 clubs successfully applied for funding.
- All funds have now been distributed.
Provincial Funding Summary:
| Province | Phase III (€) | Phase I (€) | Total (€) |
| Connacht | 15,147.34 | 46,572.19 | 61,719.53 |
| Leinster | 142,025.37 | 251,065.09 | 393,090.46 |
| Munster | 30,704.89 | 95,993.69 | 126,698.58 |
| Ulster | – | 1,186.95 | 1,186.95 |
| Total | 187,877.60 | 394,817.92 | 582,695.52 |
No clubs in Northern Ireland were eligible for this scheme as funding there is handled by Sport Northern Ireland and the Department of Communities.
