About Us

The Dedanists’ Foundation (the “Foundation “) was formed on 22 July 2011 as a private company limited by guarantee (company number: 7715011) and registered as a charity (charity number: 1145526).  It is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association, company and charity law.  It seeks to undertake its chosen charitable work through the deployment of existing funds (both income and capital).

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The Foundation was set up by Josh Farrall, David Mills and Roger Pilgrim, three members of The Dedanists’ Society (one of the best known nomadic clubs in England) in association with the T&RA and its former Chairman, William Maltby.  Julian Wilkinson joined in January 2013 and is the charity’s Secretary and Treasurer. Simon Roundell, a master at Wellington College with responsibility for real tennis, joined in November 2017. Three new Directors joined in 2019, Simon Mansfield, Chairman of Real Tennis at Queens Club, Francis Moore of the Moore Family Office and Dan Jones. Dan is the Head professional at Wellington Real Tennis Club and is universally accepted as the UK’s leading junior coach. In September 2023 Mike Rummel also came on board as a Director. At the same time William Maltby and Roger Pilgrim have stepped down as a Directors.

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The President of the Foundation is Rob Fahey, the ex world champion. The Ambassadors of the Foundation are Paul Weaver plus Real Tennis professionals, Chris Bray and Nick Wood. Paul has unparalleled experience in the world of junior Real Tennis and is also the current Director of Junior Tennis UK for the T&RA.