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Josh Dodgson | Professional Interview Series

Josh Dodgson grew up on Hayling Island, England, and was introduced to various racket sports, including tennis and squash, from a young age. Living close to sports facilities, he and his friends regularly participated in a Saturday morning tennis clinic, which eventually led him to court tennis, also known as real tennis. Dodgson recalls his first game at eight years old, coached by Peter Dawes, an old-school mentor who emphasized traditional English playing styles, focusing on technique and strategy over power.

Dodgson’s tennis journey included participation in British Junior Nationals and academy weekends, which honed his skills in both lawn tennis and court tennis. The interplay of different racket sports, such as squash and paddle, contributed to his comprehensive athletic development. Although his primary focus shifted to soccer during his teenage years, he maintained his connection to court tennis through occasional doubles tournaments.

After completing high school and attending college at Havant, near Petworth, Dodgson worked as a junior apprentice at Petworth, assisting with lessons and ball-making. This period saw a temporary shift away from tennis as he explored other interests, but he soon returned to the sport, ultimately pursuing a professional path.

Dodgson's breakthrough came during a tournament in Newport, Rhode Island, where he impressed Tim Chisholm and connected with Tony Hollands, who had ties to Hayling Island. These connections facilitated his move to the United States, where he accepted a position at Tuxedo Club. This transition marked a significant cultural shift, from the close-knit community of family and friends in England to the independent life in America. Despite the initial challenges, Dodgson thrived, building a new social circle and eventually getting engaged.

At Tuxedo Club, Dodgson found a vibrant, enthusiastic community distinct from the more traditional English clubs. The club's busy summer seasons and the addition of squash courts provided a dynamic environment for both coaching and personal play. His coaching philosophy emphasizes the strategic complexity of court tennis, a game requiring mental agility, tactical planning, and precise execution. Dodgson enjoys teaching beginners and experienced players alike, noting the unique athleticism and mindset each brings to the sport.

Dodgson's favorite serve is the railroad, around which he has tailored his game. He appreciates the quick, competitive nature of games on courts well-suited to this serve, particularly at Tuxedo Club. His preferred court is Seacourt, where he feels most comfortable and which complements his fast-paced, volley-centric style.

His proudest achievement is winning the Silver Racquet tournament, an event that showcased his ability to perform under pressure with a supportive crowd. In contrast, Dodgson struggles to pinpoint his worst loss, as he tends to perform well in critical moments, often prevailing in closely contested matches.

Looking ahead, Dodgson aspires to reach his full potential, leveraging the training opportunities and high-level competition available at his current club. His journey in court tennis has been shaped by influential mentors, including Chris Ronaldson, Rob Fahey, and Tim Chisholm, whose guidance and support have been instrumental in his development. Dodgson values the strategic depth and historical richness of court tennis, a sport that continues to challenge and inspire him.

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