VLTC to host U-16 ETF tournament

The unified commitment of local tennis clubs and the Malta Tennis Federation (MTF) to enhance the sport's popularity among youngsters is already yielding tangible results.

This week, a European Tennis Federation (ETF) international tournament for U-14 players is being staged at the Tennis Club Kordin and, just a stone's throw away, the Vittoriosa Lawn Tennis Club (VLTC) are busily preparing to host another international ETF tournament for U-16 players on their renovated tennis courts.

Peter Zammit, president of the MTF, said this is the first year that the federation has been entrusted with the organisation of the U-16 tennis tournament which forms part of the European circuit.

"All major clubs in Malta have this year hosted international junior tournaments. Their initiatives attest to their enthusiasm to promote junior tennis in their clubs," Zammit said at the Air Malta ETF U-16 tournament launching at the VLTC yesterday.

Malta's reputation for staging major international events is set to receive another boost next year as the MTF has been selected to host the Coaches' Symposium in November, 2004.

"Hvojic Zmajc, the ITF/Tennis Europe Development Officer, has advised the MTF that the coaches' workshop will see the participation of between 70 to 90 European delegates, besides Maltese coaches who can also attend the symposium, spanning a period of five days," Zammit said.

Meanwhile, 25 players - 15 boys and 10 girls - are expected to participate in the ETF U-16 tournament which will comprise the following events: boys' and girls' singles and doubles and the consolation event. Competitors from all member countries of the ETF born in 1987 or later can participate.

The Maltese players taking part in the boys' category are Matthew Asciak, Mark Cachia, Simon Camilleri and Clive Vella. In the women's section, Malta will be represented by Elaine Genovese and Stephanie Sullivan.

The qualifying rounds will be played on August 30 and 31 with the main draw starting on September 1. The tournament ends on September 5.

Oswald Tanti is the tournament director and Marisa Mintoff has been appointed tournament referee. The finals will be umpired by the officiating members within the MTF.

Ranking points

The tournament, supported by Air Malta, carries computer points in the ETF ranking system.

Zammit explained that the players benefiting from the MTF training scheme are obliged to participate in such international tournaments. Other players who show an adequate playing standard are also allowed to take part.

Vincent Galea, chairman of the VLTC, expressed his club's satisfaction at being chosen to stage this

U-16 tournament.

"The promotion of tennis among children and youngsters has always been at the core of the VLTC's work since its inception 29 years ago," Galea said.