Junior tennis players from the Suva Tennis Association have returned home with rich international exposure following a transformative 10-day training tour at the renowned Yoshida Tennis Training Centre in Japan. This exclusive program offered a unique opportunity for Fiji’s budding athletes to train alongside Japanese players, as well as engage in cultural activities such as tea-making, drumming, and dance. These experiences aimed to instill a heightened sense of focus and discipline, crucial traits that transcend the tennis court.
Head coach Sumit Lal expressed how the tour has significantly altered the approach of many young players toward the sport. “I saw a change in a lot of kids’ mindsets, where training was no longer about just hitting balls over the net, but about pushing themselves to the max while understanding the purpose of each drill and how it would help in matches and tournaments,” said Lal.
The Yoshida Tennis Training Centre, notable for hosting one of Japan’s premier International Tennis Federation tournaments, offered Fiji’s juniors not only rigorous training but also a glimpse into the pathways available to those aspiring to reach the sport’s upper echelons. This exposure is invaluable, as it aligns with broader efforts seen in Fiji to develop tennis from the grassroots level, as evidenced by recent local tournaments and initiatives.
In the past, events like the Vodafone Suva Open Tennis Championship have showcased a burgeoning interest and investment in junior tennis. With increasing participation from local schools and clubs, such events emphasize the potential of young athletes as they are integrated into a structured pathway of competitive tennis. These endeavors are further supported by sponsorships and developmental programs focused on expanding opportunities for juniors, which are crucial for sustaining the sport’s growth in Fiji.
Through experiences like those at the Yoshida Tennis Training Centre, young Fijian players are not just honing their skills but also gaining the confidence and ambition needed to compete on bigger stages. With continued support, the next generation of Fijian tennis stars is well-positioned to contribute to the nation’s standing in international tennis.