John Powell

Founder/Director

John Powell, Co-Founder of Elite Tennis & Sports, brings a remarkable story and an unwavering commitment to helping young people realise their potential. In his early life, John faced uncertainty, instability and experiences that would challenge even the strongest of adults. Despite these difficulties, he showed extraordinary resilience and, with support, was able to turn his life around.

Tennis became a transformative force for John. What began as a personal interest soon grew into a passion that took him from being an average player to winning tournaments. More importantly, the journey taught him invaluable lessons about discipline, self-belief and the power of perseverance. John realised that these lessons — shaped both by sport and by his own early life — could profoundly benefit children who might be facing similar challenges.

Determined to create meaningful change, John pursued professional and academic qualifications with the same drive that fuelled his sporting success. Combining his skills with his lived experience, he developed engaging and inclusive programmes that allow children of all abilities to participate, grow and thrive through sport.

At Elite Tennis & Sports, John’s vision goes far beyond improving fitness. While fun and physical activity lie at the heart of the organisation, the deeper purpose is to help children discover confidence, motivation and a passion they can carry into every aspect of their lives. His belief is simple but powerful: sport can change a child’s future — just as it changed his.

David Carroll

Fitness Advisor

With over 35 years’ experience in the fitness industry, David brings an extraordinary depth of knowledge, passion and commitment to every young person he works with. Beginning his career at Kirkby Sports Centre, where he spent more than two decades as a Level 4 Personal Trainer, David has become a trusted specialist in a wide range of disciplines including Spin, Boxercise, Zumba, Fitness Yoga, Legs, Bums & Tums and HIIT Training.

David has spent the last eight years supporting community groups, schools and the NHS, drawing on his Level 4 Obesity and Diabetes qualification to deliver programmes that improve physical health, confidence and wellbeing. His work on the Family Futures initiative, alongside doctors and dieticians, reflects his dedication to helping children build healthier, happier lives.

A lifelong learner and high-level competitor in Karate and Aikido, David brings the same discipline, positivity and resilience to his coaching. He is deeply committed to helping every individual realise their potential — physically, mentally and emotionally.

David believes there are no quick fixes, only the right support. His tailored 1:1 approach ensures every child is listened to, encouraged and empowered to succeed.

Dana Slade

Director

Driven by a deep belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive, Dana is passionate about helping children access opportunities that improve fitness, develop resilience and build healthy habits that support learning both on the field and in the classroom.

Alongside her role at Elite Tennis & Sports, Dana brings a wealth of commercial expertise from her career at Leathwaite, where she serves as a business development leader across the firm’s global practice. With extensive experience spanning the full spectrum of HR specialisms at executive level, she has partnered with leading global, regional and national organisations to source, assess and secure top talent across a wide range of industries. Her ability to connect people, understand organisational needs and build long-term partnerships brings a strategic edge to Elite Tennis & Sports as it grows its impact in schools and communities.