Meet the Committee: Hans Bakker
24 May 2020, by Chrissie Martin
Continuing our series of introductions to committee members, here’s a chance to get to know our Vice Chair a little better
HANS BAKKER
Tell us about your tennis life
I never played tennis in Holland as a child – hockey was our main game. I came to London in 1975 but did not take up tennis until I moved to Oxford in 1996. I first joined Oxford Sports for one season and then discovered North Oxford .LTC. Andy Barr was Chair at the time and Steve Winter was the coach.
What does your role on the committee involve?
I try and assist Sarah with her mountain of work and more often than not we make the right decisions for the club. I hope.
What’s the best thing about NOLTC?
The busy junior coaching programme, with lots of juniors there every weekday on 6 of the hardcourts.
What’s your first sporting memory?
My first sporting memory is going to Oslo with my Dad and 2 older brothers to see the World Speed Skating Championships in 1967, as the Dutch were pretty good at it. As a child we skated on the canals and lakes each year. Sweet memories.
What is your favourite film?
What an unfair question! It’s a toss up between One Flew Over the Cuckoo`s Nest or Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
Starter or dessert?
I have a terrible sweet tooth. And love Eton Mess!
What was the first band you saw live?
Creedence Clearwater Revival in De Doleen, Rotterdam`s Concert Hall , in 1968. I can listen to them over and over again even today.
Where was your most memorable holiday?
I have traveled quite a bit, including for business, to Pakistan, Australia and the USA and have been to most European countries both, on business and for pleasure. But last year’s 3-week trip to India tops the list. The people, the street food, the kindness, the climate.
What do you wish for the future of NOLTC?
The future should be to make the club look better in every corner. I am hopeful, and in favour, of converting possibly 4 of our grass courts to en tous cas