The Dan Maskell Tennis Trust is deeply saddened by the news of our Ambassador Keith Thom passing away in hospital on the 21 October. Keith touched so many in the world of wheelchair tennis, not only with his success on court, but his many friendships, formed so quickly with such a genuine man.
Keith has a long history with our Trust and was introduced to Dan Maskell himself when he was playing at his local club in the 1980s. Dan had come to Scotland on a golfing trip and to visit his daughter Robin who lived close by to Keith’s Club. Dan held a coaching session at the Club and from that day the connection started between Dan, Robin and Dalbeattie Tennis club.
Keith’s first real introduction to the Dan Maskell Tennis Trust began in 2007 when he was diagnosed as having bone cancer. During his treatment and after losing his leg Robin (Dan’s daughter) came to visit Keith with a box of books, DVDs, and anything else she had about wheelchair tennis. She said, ‘when you are well this is what you are going to do.’ At that point Keith didn’t know if he was going to get better as he had been given 3 months to live before his operation. Keith showed his strength and determination and did make a recovery so once again Robin stepped in and organised for Keith to go down to a Wheelchair Tennis Camp in Nottingham in 2009. The Trust helped Keith get his own tennis chair and from there Keith was hooked and even started playing international competitions. Keith said ‘there is no doubt that the DMTT gave me a new lease of life and a belief to carry on in the sport I loved.’
Keith decided to get some coaching experience and achieved his LTA level 2 coaching award. He used this to help new players get into the game and promote the DMTT. Keith also spent many years trying to raise money at various events at his club for the Trust right up until this summer just passed.
Keith had a positive attitude and easy character that made others feel at ease immediately. He will remain in all our memories as a true ambassador of disability tennis and a true gentlemen.
Keith’s family have made the generous decision to request donations in lieu of flowers, to go to our Charity. If you would like to make a donation, please follow this link.
