Suva Tennis Association launches school-based development pathway to grow tennis
The Suva Tennis Association has unveiled a new initiative to develop young talent by integrating a school program into its development pathway. The pilot program is being rolled out across five primary schools, with Gospel Primary School, Holy Trinity Primary School, and St Annes Primary School taking part in a competition for the first time. Students hit the courts this morning ahead of the Suva Open Championship, which starts later today and runs through to Sunday at the Victoria and Suva Lawn Tennis Courts.
Suva Tennis Association Secretary Saroj Izumi said the program creates a crucial pathway for children to get involved in tennis. “The morning program has been fantastic, they have really done well, and that has motivated the school children, parents, and teachers alike. This is part of growing tennis in Fiji, especially as a minor sport that everyone hopes to see thrive,” Izumi explained. He noted that many of the children started with little knowledge of the sport, with some even struggling to describe a tennis ball, but have since developed a strong interest and eagerness to continue playing.
The initiative aligns with a broader push to develop junior tennis in Fiji. The Suva Schools Tennis Program has already introduced hundreds of primary students to the sport, reinforcing a nationwide commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. This year’s Suva Open is building on momentum from previous events, with sponsors and organizers emphasizing junior development and grassroots enthusiasm as keys to sustaining growth in Fiji’s tennis scene.
Additional context and value
– The initiative complements ongoing efforts to expand opportunities for young players, as highlighted by recent coverage of the Suva Open and its emphasis on junior categories and community involvement.
– Vodafone Fiji has underscored its ongoing support for local tennis as part of a broader legacy-building effort, reinforcing the idea that sponsorship goes beyond funding and helps shape a lasting culture around the sport.
– Organisers hope that strengthened junior pathways will translate into a vibrant tennis culture in Fiji, producing the next generation of players who can compete at regional and national levels.
Summary
A new school-based initiative by the Suva Tennis Association aims to spark early passion for tennis and create a formal development pathway for young players. With five schools involved and a focus on turning beginners into competitive athletes, the program complements the growing momentum of the Suva Open and the broader push to cultivate Fiji’s tennis future.
Positive outlook
The concerted effort to introduce hundreds of primary students to tennis, combined with strong junior-focused programs and sponsor backing, signals a hopeful future for tennis in Fiji. If the pipeline continues to strengthen, Fiji could see more homegrown players rising through the ranks and contributing to a thriving regional tennis scene.
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