John Hicks (24 Sep 1933 - 9 Dec 2023)

John was my favourite GB tennis coach. He made us do things properly and get the little things right even down to how to use our knives and forks. He insisted on us being fit, and he made me feel ten feet tall. It was only under John’s no-nonsense inspirational guidance in the summer of 1988 that I did well internationally. He was a sort of Cloughie/Shankly figure, who demanded your all, and by goodness I wanted to give it. I stopped playing tennis and did not know John after the 80s. I am privileged he was my GB coach. Legend.

A lovely service. We will continue to talk about Hicksy for many years to come!! Love to you all. Laura x x

We all loved John very much and he'll be hugely missed 💔

It was always a pleasure to see John and Jan at an event I was refereeing and thank you for being Lydia's surrogate parents, you taught her so much more than tennis.

Dear Jan and girls,

Joanna and I were so sad to hear of John’s passing. We regularly talk about those tennis and fun filled days on John ‘s squads at Deeside Leisure Centre, Frank Rowan’s and later Wrexham Tennis Centre (his very early squad days!). John was such an inspirational coach and mentor and he had such a positive influence, not just on our tennis but also our young lives. He really was one of a kind.

We hope you are all ok.

Love Catherine and Joanna (formerly Griffiths)

A lovely tribute to one of GB’s legendary coaches and a great man. I first met John in 1986 and we crossed paths many, many times over the nxt 25+ years. Best wishes to all the family. John Black

John, what a legend you were. Thank you for all you did in my early years. I have so many fond memories from my time in North Wales. Love and best wishes to Jan and the girls. Neil Mccue x

So very sad to hear of your passing. Thank you for everything you did for me during my time at Wrexham.

A fantastic coach but so much more importantly, a really great person. You will be dearly missed but your legacy will live on through the many people you helped with their game and as individuals. Thanks for the memories Hicksy. RIP

Thoughts are with you Jan and the family.

Billy McManus and family