MTF targets new talent

The Malta Tennis Federation (MTF) is aiming to improve the skills of the younger players within its fold by introducing the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Tennis 10s programme.

Sponsored by GasanMamo Insurance, Tennis 10s provides a sound developmental structure for players aged 10 and under, through three colour-coded stages.

Through these stages, a series of developmental steps are created to allow players to progress along a competitive pathway according to age, ability and confidence. In the process, court size, racket, ball speed and duration of games all increase until the player is ready to move to full-court action.

Robert Tarpey, MTF head coach, reckons Tennis 10s helps in prolonging the juniors’ interest in the sport.

“This programme sees youngsters learning the skills better and faster,” he said.

“That leads children to stay motivated and keep playing tennis while they progress. Very often, those who try to play the game with the traditional yellow balls don’t pursue the sport, which is unfortunate.

“Through Tennis 10s we now hope to have more competent players to eventually make the national squad in future.”

Tarpey recently held a demo at the Pembroke Rackets Tennis Club aided by six mini-Red players and coaches.

MTF president David Farrugia Sacco said this was a project very much at heart of the federation.

“Tennis 10s is a key development phase in cultivating the love of this sport at an early age,” he said.

“We thank the sponsors for their continued support which enables us to move forward and invest in new initiatives.”