Dorset tennis has lost one of its most dedicated and respected figures with the passing of Eric Dry, who died recently in Salisbury.
Eric’s association with tennis in Dorset extended over many decades. As a player, he was a longstanding member of The West Hants Club in Bournemouth, one of the county’s leading tennis clubs, and maintained a close association with the game throughout his life.
His contribution to Dorset tennis extended far beyond playing. Eric devoted a substantial part of his life to the administration and development of the sport in the county, holding several of the most important positions within the county organisation.
He served as County Secretary, subsequently became Chairman of Dorset LTA, and represented Dorset nationally as the county’s LTA Councillor. Through these roles, Eric was closely involved in the organisation and development of county tennis and represented the interests of Dorset’s clubs and players within the wider game.
These were significant responsibilities at a time when much of the organisation of county tennis depended upon a relatively small group of committed volunteers. County competitions, junior development, support for clubs, relationships with the LTA and the general administration of the sport all relied heavily upon people prepared to give their time freely. Eric was one of those people, and his contribution continued over many years.
Even after relinquishing the county’s senior offices, Eric maintained his involvement with Dorset tennis. County records show him continuing to participate in the organisation well into later life, demonstrating the enduring nature of his commitment to the sport.
That longevity of involvement perhaps best illustrates Eric’s contribution. His association with Dorset tennis was not simply the consequence of holding office for a few years; it represented a lifetime’s involvement in the county game, initially as a player at West Hants and subsequently as an administrator and senior representative of Dorset tennis. In 2019, his incredible dedication and commitment to tennis was recognised with Eric receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award.
For those who knew him through West Hants and county tennis, Eric will be remembered not simply for the positions he held, but for the time, energy and experience he gave to the sport. Generations of Dorset players and clubs benefited from the county structure which Eric and his contemporaries worked so hard to maintain and develop.
Dorset tennis owes Eric a considerable debt of gratitude for his many years of service, and he will be remembered with great affection by those who played alongside him, served with him and knew him through the game.
Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Eric’s family and friends.
Funeral service at Wimborne Cemetery on Wednesday, 9th September at 11 am followed by a wake at West Hants Club.
