HAILSHAM Tennis Club has paid tribute to its former chairman and president, Graham Landon, who has passed away.
The club announced the sad news on social media, describing Mr Landon as ‘truly a legend of the club’ who would be ‘missed by us all’.
Mr Landon, who was a long-serving teacher at Hailsham School and Hailsham Community College, dedicated much of his life to the town’s tennis community. Having joined the club more than half his lifetime ago, he went on to leave a lasting mark both on and off the court.
A highly accomplished player, he dominated the club championships for over a decade, winning 11 singles titles in 14 years. In one memorable match, he was beaten by his son Steven, who has since gone on to become a tennis coach. Mr Landon also secured nine doubles championship titles during his playing career.
Beyond his success as a player, he played a key role in shaping the club’s facilities. Alongside Harry Marks, he helped oversee the transformation of the courts to all-weather astroturf surfaces and the installation of floodlights, improvements that allowed year-round play and expanded opportunities for members.
He was also known for his commitment to developing others, regularly offering coaching, supporting junior sessions, and helping train the club’s ladies team.
Paying tribute, Narun Chea wrote: “The true legend. Always willing to give coaching, helped out with the juniors on Saturday mornings, trained our ladies team and came to support the home matches. Will be a big loss to the club and his family. RIP, dear Graham.”
