The Developmental Championships at Tucker’s Point Club has been hailed as a success by Gavin Manders, one of the event’s organisers.

A total of 69 youngsters participated in the three age groups, with 28 entries in the Orange Ball Division, 24 in the Green Ball Division and 17 in the Red Ball Division,”

“We gave out six junior tennis membership scholarships, and six term clinic packages to the winners of the main draw divisions,” said Manders, who organised the event along with Javon Whitter, the assistant professional at Tucker’s Point. “It was one of the biggest turnouts for a local tennis event that I’ve seen in my time.”

Andrew Phillips and Amira El Karfa were the boys and girls winners for the eight and under Red Ball Division.

Manders, the club’s head professional, added: “The environment both on and off the court was definitely contagious. The children had a great time and we got a lot of positive feedback from the parents and had over 250 people come to the club.

“It was definitely one of the bigger tournaments we’ve been a part of and it just so happens that me and Javon were on the other side of it rather than playing in it.

“It was beautiful to watch the children learn how to play the game in a fun environment. The tournament was more about fun first, effort second and winning third and they all brought into that.”

Manders said the turnout bodes well for the future of junior tennis on the Island.

“We didn’t just have players from Tucker’s Point but players from all over the Island,” Manders said. “They formed new friendships and it looks like we already have two sponsors for our next two tournaments in March and probably in June,” Manders said.

“The quality of matches was exciting and there was good sportsmanship.”