A MUM and tennis coach from Barry has become one of two Welsh ambassadors in a Judy Murray-founded initiative to encourage women into the sport.

Mum-of-three Penny Mickelsen, joined Mrs Murray, trainer mum of top players Andy and Jamie, in Birmingham for the launch of She Rallies.

She Rallies, supported by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), is aimed at expanding the number of women and girls coaching and playing tennis across the UK.

Mum-of-three Mrs Mickelsen, 40, of Clos yr Wylan, Barry Island, a development coach with Vale Tennis Academy, hopes to begin spreading the word in the Vale.

She wants to hear from schools, youth groups, colleges, sports development teams and play workers, who would be interested in getting involved with playing tennis.

She said: “My role is to raise the profile of tennis for women and girls.

"We will have fun days and competitions and encourage families to take part.”

More than 200 women attended a conference, on February 3, but there are only 30 She Rallies ambassadors throughout the UK.

Mrs Mickelsen said: “I got an email asking if I would like to do it.

"It was a no-brainer. I read the description and saw this was written for me. It will get more people loving the game without the restrictiveness of clubs. It’s taking the game to the people and giving them the confidence to enjoy it.

“The day was brilliant and relevant and I was with Judy Murray. It was quite surreal.”

Mrs Murray said: “There is still a significant gender gap in terms of players and coaches at all levels of the game. By rallying together, we can create opportunities in tennis from the grassroots up."

Visit, www.sherallies.com or email penny@valetennisacademy.co.uk