HAVING worked with a number of stars and celebrities, tennis coach Jon Lee is now focusing on helping south-east Essex players shine on court.

Lee previously worked as a professional hitter and worked with both Venus and Serena Williams and Andy Roddick before beginning a career in coaching.

Since then Lee has worked with pop star Cliff Richard, actor Harrison Ford, footballers Ian Wright and Paul Merson and swimmer Mark Foster.

But Lee, who is among the top six most qualified coaches in the country, now enjoys working with a vast number of local players.

“In every day life I’m not really the most patient of people but I am when it comes to coaching and it’s a job I really enjoy,” said Lee, who coaches at the David Lloyd Centre in Southend.

“There is a lot of depth in this area when it comes to tennis players.

“There are a lot of clubs locally and we have a lot more going on than plenty of other areas which is great.”

Echo:

Pupils - Jon Lee with star swimmer Mark Foster and Echosport's Chris Phillips

Lee possesses a first in BSc Hons in professional practice in tennis management plus the level five LTA Master Club Coach qualification.

He was also mentored by Judy Murray - mother of world number one Andy - between 2006 and 2008 and has now been coaching for 26 years.

“I love being out there on court and helping people become better tennis players,” said Lee.

“I feel like I can improve any player twice as quick as most coaches. That’s what a lifetime of dedication and training has given me.”

>Jon will be starting a weekly column in the Echo next week passing on his coaching tips.