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How Personalised Member Experiences Are Redefining Sports Venues in 2025

Introduction Sports venues have entered a new era — one where personalisation is no longer a luxury but an expectation.Members in 2025 want experiences tailored to them, not generic interactions. From personalised notifications to tailored class recommendations, the clubs offering individualised digital journeys are outperforming those that treat every member the same. This shift is now backed by data, behaviour, and technology. The Rise of Personalised Member Experiences Recent sports technology insights highlight a major industry transformation: members want clubs to understand their preferences, habits, and booking routines. Additional digital trend research shows that personalisation increases attendance, strengthens loyalty, and makes clubs feel more premium. How Personalisation Drives Growth for Sports Venues 1. Tailored Notifications Increase Engagement Members are far more responsive to communication that is specific to them.Push alerts that match their sport, team, or preferred time slot lead to higher participation — supported by member engagement research. 2. Personalised Booking Flows Improve Convenience A customised app can guide members toward their favourite courts or classes, reducing searching time and boosting booking volume.This is reinforced by sports management software analysis. 3. Intelligent Recommendations Keep Members Active Whether it’s suggesting new classes or highlighting underused facilities, personalised suggestions increase participation — validated through sports community insights. 4. Dynamic Memberships Increase Revenue Digital tools can recommend upgrades, bundles, or add-on services based on activity patterns, leading to higher spend per member.This is supported by sports-tech adoption studies. Why Personalisation Only Works Inside a Branded App Social platforms, email reminders, and generic booking tools cannot deliver personalised journeys. A branded app can — because it becomes the central digital identity of the venue. With AppsLeisure’s customised club platform, venues can deliver: This turns your venue into a smart, responsive digital environment designed around each member individually. 👉 How a Customised Sports App Can Transform Your Leisure Centre 2025: Personalisation Becomes the Standard According to leading digital sports industry reports, personalisation will define the success of sports venues for the next decade. Venues embracing custom digital experiences are seeing: Those who ignore this shift risk appearing outdated and losing members to more modern competitors. Deliver Personalised Experiences With AppsLeisure If your venue wants to create deeper connections, stronger loyalty, and a premium member experience, personalisation must start now. See how your club can deliver personalised digital journeys: 👉 Book a Free 15-Minute Demo👉 Explore AppsLeisure

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Why Technology Is Now the No.1 Driver of Sports Venue Revenue in 2025

Introduction Across the sports industry, 2025 has become the year where technology replaces manual operations as the #1 driver of revenue growth.Sports venues that embrace digital transformation are outperforming those still relying on outdated booking systems, inconsistent communication, and fragmented admin tools. Clubs that modernise their technology stack are achieving: This shift isn’t optional anymore — it’s a competitive necessity. The Digital Transformation Happening Inside Sports Venues Sports-tech adoption is accelerating rapidly.Recent industry insights show exponential growth in sports and fitness apps, directly influencing how members interact with venues. A growing number of venues are improving bookings, payments, communication, and community engagement using modern solutions, supported by sports technology trend analyses. The 4 Technology Pillars Driving Venue Revenue in 2025 1. Automated, Frictionless Bookings Members want instant booking access — not phone calls, emails, or waiting for replies.Clubs using modern systems backed by sports management data see far fewer empty slots and double-bookings. 2. Digital Payment & Membership Tools Smooth digital payments increase renewal rates and reduce overdue balances.This is supported by sports tech adoption studies showing improved financial consistency across venues. 3. Automated Communication & Push Notifications Communication is the heartbeat of retention.Timely notifications improve attendance and reduce no-shows, backed by member engagement research. 4. Digital Community & Social Features A connected community equals a loyal community.Studies confirm that clubs with strong internal digital communities grow faster, validated in digital community insights. Why The Most Successful Venues Use Branded Mobile Apps Generic tools can’t deliver a unified experience.This is why branded mobile apps have become the standard for modern sports venues. A venue-branded app brings everything together: ✔ Real-time bookings✔ Push notifications✔ Events & team management✔ Payments & renewals✔ Social feed & community✔ Member insights & analytics✔ Admin dashboard✔ Instant communication This is exactly what the AppsLeisure platform delivers — purpose-built for sports venues, leisure centres, coaches, academies, and multi-sport facilities. Your members download your app.Your brand stays front and centre.Your venue becomes their digital home. 👉 How Technology Can Help Sports Venues Thrive Technology = Revenue Growth in 2025 According to leading digital sports industry reports, technology is no longer a support tool — it is the backbone of club growth. Clubs that digitise now are: Clubs that delay will fall behind quickly. Transform Your Venue With AppsLeisure AppsLeisure lets sports venues operate at a higher level with a fully branded mobile app that members love using. See how your venue can grow through technology: 👉 Book a Free 15-Minute Demo👉 Explore the AppsLeisure Platform

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How Digital Communities Are Becoming the Secret Growth Engine for Sports Clubs in 2025

Introduction In 2025, sports clubs aren’t just winning because of great facilities or coaching.The biggest growth driver today is something clubs didn’t prioritise a few years ago: Digital club communities. Members now expect more than just access to courts or classes — they want belonging, connection, updates, communication, and engagement.The clubs building strong digital communities are seeing dramatic improvements in retention, participation, and long-term loyalty. Why Digital Communities Are Transforming Sports Clubs New sports engagement insights highlight a huge shift: members are far more likely to stay active when they feel connected to the club digitally. Recent sports technology trend reports show that venues with active digital communities outperform those still relying on outdated tools like WhatsApp groups or email chains. Digital behaviour has changed — and successful clubs have changed with it. What a Digital Community Actually Provides 1. Real-Time Member Connection Push notifications, team updates, event announcements, and personalised reminders keep members consistently engaged.This is supported by member engagement analysis. 2. Stronger Loyalty & Retention Players stay longer when they feel socially connected.Studies confirm this in digital community engagement research. 3. Easier Team & Event Coordination Club-wide communication becomes simple, clear, and centralised rather than scattered across multiple apps. 4. Higher Participation & Attendance Members who receive reminders, updates, and motivational prompts participate more often — backed by sports-tech communication insights. Why a Branded App Builds a Better Community Than Social Platforms WhatsApp groups fail for clubs because: A branded mobile app creates proper digital organisation and long-term loyalty. With AppsLeisure’s branded club platform, your venue gets: It becomes the digital home for your club — your brand at the centre of the experience. 👉 Membership Retention Strategies for Sports Venues: How to Keep Members Coming Back Digital Communities = The Future of Club Growth The latest digital sports industry analysis confirms that community-driven digital engagement will dominate the next wave of club growth. Clubs that create structured digital communities will lead the industry.Clubs that don’t will fall behind — fast. Upgrade Your Club’s Digital Community With AppsLeisure A community isn’t built with random messages—it’s built with structure, identity, and connection. See how your club’s branded app could look: 👉 Book a Free 15-Minute Demo👉 Explore AppsLeisure

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Why 2025 Is the Year Sports Clubs MUST Go Digital — Are You Keeping Up?

📲 The New Reality for Sports Clubs Sports clubs across the world are rapidly moving away from outdated admin systems and adopting modern, digital-first solutions.Recent industry research shows that clubs relying on spreadsheets, manual bookings, or scattered communication systems are losing efficiency — and members. Players now expect: These expectations are rising across the entire sector, confirmed by multiple sports tech adoption reports. 🧩 What Modern Digital Club Management Looks Like Top-performing clubs now use advanced all-in-one systems to manage: ✔ Bookings & Scheduling Digital booking platforms eliminate double-bookings and give real-time availability, supported by sports business software studies. ✔ Instant Member Communication Push notifications and automated reminders dramatically reduce no-shows and improve attendance.Data backed by club engagement research. ✔ Online Payments & Membership Management Clubs using digital payment systems experience faster renewals and fewer failed payments, according to membership tech statistics. ✔ Centralized Admin Controls Dashboards now give admins real-time insight into bookings, attendance, usage trends, and revenue streams, detailed in sports management analytics reports. In short: digital clubs are more organized, better connected, and far more efficient. ⭐ Why AppsLeisure Is Built for This Exact Shift Generic platforms aren’t designed for sports venues — and they don’t create loyalty.AppsLeisure provides a fully branded mobile app built specifically for sports clubs. Your club’s own: Explore the full platform here:👉 AppsLeisure.com AppsLeisure includes all the features modern clubs rely on: Nothing generic. Nothing shared with other clubs.It’s your digital home — built for your members. 🔗 Internal Link (SEO Boost) This article connects directly to our in-depth breakdown of the industry shift happening right now.Read it here:👉 The Shift Happening in Sports Clubs Right Now ⚠️ Why Waiting Is the Biggest Risk Clubs that delay digital transformation risk: Digital expectations rise every year — 2025 is the turning point.Multiple sports digital trend reports confirm this shift is accelerating fast. 🔥 Take Action Before Your Competitors Do See how your fully branded app could look — built specifically for your club: 👉 Book a Free 15-Minute Demo👉 Explore AppsLeisure

older man organising a gym meet up with a sports app
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Breaking Barriers: How to Increase Sports Participation of Older Adults

Encouraging older adults to stay active is more important than ever, with clear evidence showing the wide-ranging benefits of physical activity later in life. Yet one common barrier continues to hold many back—going it alone. The absence of a companion or social support often prevents older individuals from joining fitness classes or participating in sports, even when they’re motivated to improve their health. At Appsleisure, we believe in making sports more inclusive, social, and accessible—especially for those who may need that extra connection to get started. Why Older Adults Are Turning to Sports There is growing interest among the older generation in engaging in sports and fitness. Not only does regular exercise improve cardiovascular health, strength, and mobility, but it also boosts mood, reduces the risk of chronic disease, and supports cognitive function. According to research from the National Institute on Ageing, older adults who exercise consistently are more likely to maintain independence and enjoy a better quality of life. However, many hesitate to begin—or maintain—an active lifestyle because they don’t want to do it alone. This reluctance doesn’t reflect a lack of interest, but rather a human need for social interaction and support. The Importance of Social Connection in Sports Social connection is often the missing piece. Feeling part of a group, finding a workout buddy, or joining a welcoming community can turn what feels intimidating into something enjoyable. For older adults in particular, shared experiences and consistent companionship can be key motivators for sustained participation in physical activity. Despite this, many older individuals find themselves unsure where to start, or who to start with. That’s where digital tools like Appsleisure can make a difference. How Appsleisure Helps Older Adults Get Active Appsleisure offers a customizable sports social networking platform that helps older adults connect with others who share their fitness goals and interests. The platform is designed to make participation easier, more social, and less intimidating. Key Features for Older Adults: Benefits for Older Adults Appsleisure isn’t just about finding partners—it’s about fostering a lifestyle of connection and activity: Frequently Asked Questions Why is increasing sports participation in older adults so important?It improves physical and mental health, reduces healthcare costs, and promotes social engagement—key factors in healthy ageing. How can older adults find companions for sports?Through platforms like Appsleisure, users can connect with others in their local area who have similar goals, making it easier to stay motivated and involved. Are there sports venues already using this platform?Yes, a growing number of venues partner with Appsleisure to enhance their offerings, foster community, and increase member retention. Can Appsleisure support fitness goals?Definitely. With personalized recommendations and an emphasis on connection, the app helps older adults stay on track and engaged in regular activity. Supporting Active Ageing Through Connection For community organisations, sports venues, or fitness providers, helping older adults stay active is both a health priority and an opportunity to build stronger, more connected communities. By addressing social barriers to participation, platforms like Appsleisure are paving the way for a more inclusive and active future. Start breaking down barriers today. Help older adults in your community rediscover the joy of movement—with support, connection, and confidence.  

gym frends who booked with a sports facility app
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How a Customised Sports App Can Boost Gym Membership

In an increasingly competitive fitness market, gyms must go beyond great facilities and equipment. Today’s members expect more—more connection, more personalization, and more convenience. That’s where a customised sports app comes in for gym membership. At Apps Leisure, we create fully branded gym apps that transform the way your gym engages with members, all within their gym membership. From social features and performance tracking to seamless booking and e-commerce tools, our apps help fitness businesses stand out while driving loyalty, community, and growth. Why a Customised App Matters for Your Gym Modern gym-goers want a seamless fitness experience that fits into their lifestyle. A customised app gives them exactly that—and gives your gym a strategic edge. Here’s how: 1. Build a Stronger Community Retention improves when members feel part of something bigger. With features like group chats, event listings, and member directories, your app becomes a digital space where relationships thrive, accountability builds, and motivation stays high. 2. Simplify Communication From last-minute class changes to exclusive offers, push notifications and in-app messages ensure your members are always in the loop—no missed updates, no confusion. 3. Personalise the Fitness Journey Track progress, set goals, and offer tailored workout recommendations. When members see their results and feel supported, they’re far more likely to stay engaged—and keep coming back. Key Features That Make a Difference Our platform offers powerful, user-friendly features designed to meet the real needs of gyms and their communities: Turn Your App Into a Marketing Tool Your gym app isn’t just for members—it’s also a powerful tool to attract new ones. With built-in SEO features such as blogs, testimonials, and community posts, your app can help increase visibility online and improve your search engine rankings. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Why should my gym invest in a customised app?Because it enhances the member experience, improves communication, and streamlines daily operations. A customised app also helps differentiate your brand in a crowded market. 2. How does a gym app increase retention?By making it easier for members to stay engaged—whether that’s through tracking workouts, booking classes, or staying connected to a fitness community. 3. Can the app integrate with our current systems?Yes. Apps Leisure offers seamless integration with most CRM systems, booking platforms, and popular fitness wearables. 4. Is the app secure?Absolutely. We take data privacy seriously and use advanced encryption to keep user data protected. 5. How long does it take to launch the app?Our typical timeline is just a few weeks, depending on your specific requirements and customisation needs. Why Choose Apps Leisure? We specialise in white-label sports social networking apps that give gyms the tools they need to thrive. Our solutions are flexible, intuitive, and built with both gym operators and members in mind. Whether you run a boutique fitness studio or a large multi-site facility, our platform adapts to your goals—and scales as you grow. Ready to take your gym to the next level?Contact us today to explore how a customised app can help grow your gym membership, enhance retention, and set your gym apart from the rest.

female netball players organising their next game using the apps leisure app
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How Technology Can Help Sports Venues Thrive

In today’s fast-moving digital world, technology is changing the game for sports venues. Whether it’s improving day-to-day operations, deepening customer engagement, or supporting sustainability, the right tech tools can make a powerful difference. This article explores how modern technology can help sports clubs and venues grow, save time, increase revenue, and deliver an exceptional experience to members and visitors alike. Smarter Operations with Digital Tools 1. Simplifying Facility Management Running a sports venue involves managing multiple moving parts—schedules, equipment, staffing, and bookings. With modern facility management software, venues can centralise these processes in one easy-to-use system. Cloud-based tools make it simple to avoid double bookings, monitor usage patterns, and assign staff based on real-time demand, helping everything run more smoothly and efficiently. Building Stronger Customer Connections 2. Enhancing Engagement and Retention Today’s customers expect more than just a place to play—they want a sense of community. That’s where dedicated engagement platforms come in. Custom apps designed for sports venues, like those offered by Appsleisure, provide features such as: These features not only boost engagement but also encourage repeat visits and long-term loyalty. Data That Drives Growth 3. Using Analytics to Increase Revenue Data is one of the most powerful assets a sports venue can use. Analytics platforms help track customer behaviour, identify popular time slots, and even suggest pricing strategies. By using data to make smarter decisions, venues can uncover new revenue opportunities—whether through upselling, targeted promotions, or refining services to better match demand. Going Green with Smart Technology 4. Improving Sustainability with IoT Solutions Sustainability is increasingly important to customers—and it makes good business sense too. Smart IoT (Internet of Things) devices can help sports venues monitor energy use and automate systems like lighting, heating, and irrigation. By integrating energy management tools, venues not only lower utility costs but also reduce their carbon footprint and align with sustainability goals. Frequently Asked Questions How can technology help retain more members?Technology makes it easier for customers to stay connected and engaged. Features like social networking, easy bookings, and reward systems all encourage repeat visits and long-term loyalty. Are there tools that encourage more social interaction at sports venues?Yes—social apps like Appsleisure let users connect with other members, arrange games, and share updates. These features foster a sense of community and boost user satisfaction. Can tech help reduce operating costs?Absolutely. Automation tools and energy management systems cut down on manual tasks and energy waste, saving both time and money. Is investing in technology realistic for smaller venues?Many platforms now offer scalable pricing, so even small clubs can access the benefits of advanced technology without breaking the bank. The Takeaway: Future-Proofing Your Sports Venue Technology is no longer just a nice-to-have—it’s a key driver of success for sports venues of all sizes. From creating stronger customer relationships to operating more efficiently and sustainably, digital tools offer real, measurable benefits. By adopting the right technology today, sports venues can stay competitive, deliver better experiences, and position themselves for long-term growth. The future is digital—don’t get left behind.

yoga class which was booked with a yoga class booking app from apps leisure
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Membership Retention Strategies for Sports Venues: How to Keep Members Coming Back

For sports venues, membership retention isn’t just a metric—it’s the foundation of long-term growth. Retaining members boosts revenue stability, builds a sense of community, and fuels positive word-of-mouth. In this blog, we’ll look at why retention matters, common challenges venues face, and proven strategies to improve member loyalty and engagement. Why Retention Should Be a Top Priority It’s often said that it costs more to acquire a new member than to retain an existing one, and that holds especially true for sports venues. Long-term members not only provide consistent income but are also more likely to invest in additional services such as personal training, events, or merchandise. Here’s why retention deserves your attention: Strategies to Improve Membership Retention 1. Create a Sense of Belonging Members who feel like part of a community are more likely to stay. Sports venues can foster this by: 2. Personalize the Experience People stay where they feel seen. Use data to personalize: When done right, personalization adds real value to a member’s journey. 3. Make Feedback a Two-Way Street Feedback isn’t just useful—it’s essential. Knowing why members are satisfied (or not) can help you improve retention. 4. Use Technology to Add Value Modern sports venues should offer digital convenience. Apps and online tools help members manage their experience on their own terms: 5. Reward Long-Term Commitment Acknowledging loyalty can go a long way. Offer benefits that make members feel appreciated: Small gestures can significantly impact member satisfaction and loyalty. Common Challenges in Member Retention Understanding why members leave can help you build strategies to keep them longer. Some common reasons include: Regular communication, flexibility, and member-centric planning can help address these concerns. Frequently Asked Questions How do I measure membership retention?Using CRM tools or membership tracking systems can help you monitor retention rates and member engagement over time. What’s a good retention rate for sports venues?An 85% or higher annual retention rate is generally considered strong, though benchmarks can vary depending on your venue type and size. How can I win back inactive members?Offer incentives like trial passes, limited-time discounts, or personalized re-engagement emails. A little effort can reignite interest and bring members back through your doors. Final Thoughts Improving membership retention is about more than holding onto numbers. It’s about building a place people want to be part of—where relationships are valued, experiences are personalized, and every member feels like they belong. By investing in the right tools, fostering genuine connections, and continuously listening to your members, your venue can build lasting engagement and long-term success.

man running in the gym who used an app to boost member engagement in fitness clubs
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How a Customised Sports App Can Transform Your Leisure Centre

In today’s fast-paced and competitive fitness and recreation industry, standing out is more challenging—and more important—than ever. One way to gain a meaningful edge is by adopting a customised sports app designed specifically for your leisure centre. From boosting member engagement to simplifying day-to-day operations, a bespoke digital solution can elevate your offering and future-proof your facility. Here’s how a white-label sports app from Apps Leisure can help your leisure centre thrive. Why Your Leisure Centre Needs a Custom Sports App 1. Boost Member Engagement A personalised app helps you build stronger relationships with your members. With features like activity tracking, class bookings, and in-app communication, users stay actively engaged both inside and outside your facility. Higher engagement directly translates to better member retention. 2. Simplify Operations Managing schedules, updates, and communication manually can be time-consuming. A customised app automates these tasks through features like push notifications, real-time updates, and booking integrations, making operations smoother and saving your team valuable time. 3. Create a Thriving Community Encouraging members to connect with one another can dramatically increase loyalty. Built-in social networking features let users form groups, join teams, and take part in fitness challenges, helping you foster a sense of community that keeps members coming back—and spreading the word. Key Features That Set a Custom App Apart When considering a tailored app for your leisure centre, it’s important to prioritise features that genuinely add value. Here are some that can make a real difference: Real Benefits for Your Leisure Centre 📈 New Revenue Opportunities Custom apps offer monetisation options such as in-app advertising, premium features, or branded experiences. 🔄 Higher Retention Rates Features like personalised reminders, milestone achievements, and social connectivity reduce churn and encourage long-term loyalty. 🎯 Stronger Brand Identity A white-label solution ensures that your centre’s name, colours, and values are front and centre, helping you stand out in a crowded market. 📊 Smarter Decision-Making Use real-time data to identify popular classes, peak usage hours, and member preferences, so you can make data-driven improvements. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How much does a customised sports app cost?Pricing depends on the level of personalisation and features you choose. Get in touch for a tailored quote. 2. Will it work with our current systems?Yes. We offer seamless integration with your existing booking platforms, payment gateways, and membership databases. 3. Can the app reflect our brand?Absolutely. Our white-label apps are designed to showcase your leisure centre’s logo, colours, and identity. 4. What support is provided after launch?You’ll receive ongoing technical support and regular updates to keep everything running smoothly. 5. How does an app improve member retention?By delivering consistent engagement, building community, and offering convenience, a custom app keeps members involved and loyal. Final Thoughts A customised sports app isn’t just a luxury—it’s becoming a necessity for forward-thinking leisure centres. It helps improve member experiences, streamline operations, and strengthen your brand’s position in an increasingly digital world. Want to see how Apps Leisure can support your transformation?Let’s start the conversation today.

man who needs to find a tennis partner near me
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Why It’s So Hard to Find a Tennis Partner — And What Your Venue Can Do About It

Tennis is one of those sports that ticks all the boxes: it’s great for fitness, sharpens your mind, and offers social connection. But for many players — beginners and veterans alike — the biggest barrier isn’t motivation, equipment, or court access. It’s simply finding someone to play with – a tennis partner! At Appsleisure, we’ve seen this issue across countless venues: people want to play, but they’re held back by the lack of a playing partner. In this post, we’ll unpack why that’s such a common problem, how it affects player engagement, and what venues can do to fix it — fast. The Real Barrier: Connection, Not Court You need at least one other person to play tennis, ideally someone with a similar skill level and availability. But while courts and clubs are widely available, the social infrastructure to help people connect just isn’t there. Here’s why: Why This Hurts Sports Venues For tennis venues, the cost is more than just empty courts. When players can’t find tennis partners, they play less. That means: Even with the post-pandemic surge in interest in tennis, many venues aren’t equipped to meet the demand in a modern, user-friendly way. Where Appsleisure Comes In Appsleisure was designed to solve this exact issue. Our platform gives venues a fully branded mobile app tailored for their members — helping players find each other, organise matches, and get more out of the club. It’s a social layer built for sports communities, and it works especially well for tennis. Features That Make a Difference Real Results from Real Clubs A tennis venue in the UK adopted Appsleisure in early 2025. Just three months later: That’s the kind of impact a strong digital community can create. FAQs Does it work for beginners who don’t know anyone?Yes — that’s exactly who it helps. Players are matched by level and can join beginner-focused groups. Is Appsleisure only for tennis?Not at all. It works for squash, padel, badminton, and more. But tennis remains a core strength of the platform. What if our venue already has a booking system?Appsleisure can integrate with existing systems or offer a built-in one. Its real value lies in connecting players and building community. Is there a cost for players?That’s up to the venue. Because Appsleisure is white-label, clubs can decide how to offer it — as a member perk or an add-on. Final Word There’s no shortage of people who want to play tennis. But without a tennis partner, many just don’t show up. If your venue isn’t solving the connection problem, you’re likely losing out on revenue, retention, and growth. Appsleisure changes that by giving your community an easy way to connect, schedule, and play — all under your brand. Tennis should be a social sport — not a solo mission. Let’s make it easier for people to play.and find a tennis partner