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Lawrence ("Lawrie")Strong, C.M.
Served on the Board of Directors of both the Ontario Tennis Association (then known as the Ontario Lawn Tennis Association) and the Canadian Lawn Tennis Association (now Tennis Canada) simultaneously from 1968 to 1975. President of the OTA from 1970 to 1972. President of the CLTA from 1976 to 1978.
Created a strategic framework for tennis growth and excellence in Ontario and initiated the first regional committees as part of the OTA. The publication "Ontario Tennis" was launched during his tenure and the first full-time staff was hired, to ensure a more professional administration of the Association's affairs during a period of strong growth in the sport. Introduced Canada's first tennis teaching/certification programme and improved player development by initiating more out-of-province tournaments.
Was instrumental, along with Ken Sinclair and others, in establishing the present National Tennis Centre at York University. In particular, was key in negotiating the tripartite agreement between York, the OLTA, and CLTA in obtaining the financing necessary for its construction. As president of the CLTA, succeeded in getting unanimous approval of the CLTA Council to the construction fo the National Tennis Centre as the permanent home of the Canadian Open.
Throughout the 1970's was instrumental in creating a framework for Player Development and Coaching at the National level.
As a player won several Ontario men's and mixed doubles titiles. With his wife Vivienne won the 1968 Canadian Open Mixed title and the 1969 Canada Games Mixed Gold Medal. Davis Cup Captain in 1970/71.
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