2003 March 05 - Felgate new chief of LTA

David Felgate has been named as the new Performance Director of the Lawn Tennis Association. This position was previously held by the Frenchman Patrice Hagelauer who resigned in December following 4 years of service.

David is previously known for his role as Tim Henman's coach, and it seems that Tim's recommendation of David for the post did not go unnoticed. Of the appointment, David said:

"I am very excited to have this opportunity in what I consider to be one of the top jobs in world tennis, not just in Britain.

"I believe that Patrice has implemented some lasting reforms, but of course I will have my own ideas on how we get the best out of our national training department and the players themselves."

John Crowther, chief executive of the LTA said:

"I am delighted that David has accepted the opportunity to follow Patrice as director of performance.

"We are undergoing a sea change in British tennis and I am very confident that David will promote the highest standards among players and coaches in this country.

"I said last December when we announced news of Patrice's departure that we were looking for a candidate who has direct experience of working at the highest levels of performance coaching and David clearly fits the bill."

John McEnroe was less than impressed with the LTA's choice. He commented:

"To me, the kids need inspiration. Can David Felgate get the kids pumped up? I guess that's what the LTA thinks he can do.

"What I see in a lot of sports is a recycling of people who are already out there and around, instead of a more bold choice. This seems like a choice that was within the ranks."

There is probably an element of sour grapes from Mac as he had hoped to land the job himself, but his points are valid ... only time will tell.