COACHING
TEAM
MIKE BARRY
Head Coach
Mike is the Head Coach at Riverside and has been part of the club since he first picked up a racket here at four years old. He has represented Wiltshire at both junior and senior level and is regarded as one of the strongest players in the area. Riverside has been Mike’s tennis home for over two decades, and he brings that same pride and connection into the programme he now leads.
He believes players improve fastest when they have a clear picture of what they’re trying to achieve and why. His coaching blends his strong technical knowledge with tasks and explanations that make the game easier to understand. Mike focuses on building foundations that won’t limit players later, developing skills that continue to grow with players as the game becomes more demanding.
JAY BARRY
Technical Lead
Jay brings a simplicity to his coaching which is only possible due to his deep understanding of the game. He has a reputation within the team for finding simple, effective solutions to complex technical and tactical problems. He spots the movements that matter most and uses targeted drills to develop them.
He is strong at both ends of the pathway - helping new players build a solid base and helping advanced players refine the subtle details that take their game to the next level. Jay holds high standards because he knows the game demands them. He values clean mechanics, clear intentions and decisions that allow players to compete properly at the level they should.
Jay is widely seen as the best player at the club and one of the strongest in the county. His ability to demonstrate at a high level gives players a clear and credible model to learn from.
KARINA WEEDON
Adult Lead & Level 4 Licensed Coach
With over three decades of coaching experience and a strong background as a competitive player, Karina brings a wealth of knowledge to her coaching. She keeps up to date with modern coaching methods and uses a wide variety of drills to help players of all ages and abilities reach their potential.
Karina has a keen interest in the mental side of the sport, as well as movement and physical preparation. She creates clear, well structured environments where players understand expectations and can grow in confidence, both as athletes and as individuals.
Karina is widely regarded as one of the strongest female players in the area, with over 40 years of county representation. She captains the Wiltshire Over 35s team and the Ladies A Team at Riverside. Having played and coached at Riverside for over a decade, she is an invaluable member of the coaching team.
CAROLYN BARRY
Coaching Coordinator and Level 3 Licensed Coach
Carolyn is Riverside’s Coaching Co-ordinator and previously served as Head Coach for over fifteen years. She grew Riverside’s coaching programme from one weekly session into the full, vibrant structure the club now enjoys - an achievement that underpins much of the club’s success. Carolyn manages much of the programme’s organisation but still loves being on court, working with players of all ages and abilities.
She is especially passionate about helping people get into tennis for the first time or helping them get back into it after years away. Carolyn has a unique talent for creating welcoming, confidence building sessions, whether she’s coaching disability groups, running ladies’ coffee mornings or delivering individual lessons that blend tennis, conversation and encouragement in equal measure. She is also committed to helping players take their first steps into competition, teaching them how to score, how to rally and how to enjoy matchplay.