The Suva Tennis Association has recently concluded a transformative 10-day junior training tour at Japan’s renowned Yoshida Tennis Training Centre. This exclusive program provided an invaluable opportunity for Suva’s aspiring tennis stars, blending elite sports development with enriching cultural experiences in Japan that aimed to enhance both their skills and mindset.
Yoshida’s training center, marked by its pink banner symbolizing Japan’s cherished cherry blossoms and embodying renewal and growth, imparted a philosophy of confronting challenges with unwavering determination to the young athletes. Mornings were devoted to cultural activities such as calligraphy, tea ceremonies, taiko drumming, and traditional dance. These activities emphasized focus, discipline, and attentive listening, nurturing mental skills useful both on and off the court.
In the afternoons, high-intensity tennis sessions with Japanese juniors took place. This exposure gave Suva’s players insight into the precision and work ethic characteristic of Japanese sports. Head Coach Sumit described the tour as a significant turning point, noting substantial shifts in player mindsets and stressing the importance of discipline and focus in their approach to the game.
Team Manager Saroj Izumi highlighted the need for continuous coach education and more extended overseas learning opportunities, underscoring the potential for further development. With Japan hosting several International Tennis Federation (ITF) events, including one at Yoshida, Suva Tennis foresees promising future collaborations.
These experiences have elevated the players’ capabilities and opened avenues for future growth in tennis within Fiji. The Suva Tennis Association expressed gratitude to Yoshida Tennis Training Centre for its warm hospitality and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Fiji’s tennis talent on an international level.
Building on existing initiatives, such as the school-based development programs in Fiji, the association is promoting a comprehensive approach to nurturing young local talent. The ongoing efforts to develop a robust tennis culture in Fiji, underpinned by sponsorships and grassroots programs, signal a promising future for the sport. This international training experience reflects Fiji’s aspirations on the global stage, providing a solid foundation for these young athletes to excel both locally and internationally.