Young Darwin is a smash hit

The inspirational seven-year-old from Rotherham was diagnosed three years ago with Ewings Sarcoma, a bone cancer which affects his palvis, spine and lungs.

It meant he couldn't walk without being in pain and had to undertake 15 courses of chemotherapy and 30 doses of radiotherapy over a year.    

Throughout his treatment, Darwin's mum Angela was keen to help her son to be a “normal” boy, so gave him the option of trying a new sport.  

So Darwin chose to join Moorgate Tennis Club — and he's fought through the pain barrier to become one of the brightest youngsters at the club.

Said Angela: “He'd never played tennis before and I was really nervous about him doing anything physical.

“But the head coach at Moorgate, Glyn Smith, was brilliant with him!”

Over the past two years, Glyn has worked closely with Darwin, developing a coaching programme to suit his level of movement and agility.  

Now Darwin's strength, determination and strategy of the game make him a force to be reckoned with.  

And the youngster has set himself the target of winning junior silverware.

He said: “I'm glad I chose to play tennis.  I look forward to every lesson and love the competition.  

“My next goal is to win the May final of our internal Mini Competition after being runner-up in the Marsh and April events.”

Moorgate offer tuition to children of all tennis abilities.  

For more information, check out www.moorgatetennis.co.uk or contact Glyn Smith on 07857 334909