Bermudian players are being encouraged to sign up for the Bermuda Breezes USTA National Championships, which take place next month.

Organisers of the tournament at Coral Beach & Tennis Club are thrilled with the response from American tennis players, but would like to see more Bermuda residents — and especially female players enter before the March 31 deadline.

“We have had great entries so far from overseas players and Coral Beach’s room inventory is virtually sold out with over a hundred room nights booked and with nine days still to go before the entry deadline closes,” Coral Beach general manager Nik Bhola said.

Club sports director Patrick Singleton added: “We want to show the USTA the high calibre of tennis in Bermuda and how much enthusiasm there is for the sport, which was introduced to the US from Bermuda.

“We see the Bermuda Breezes tournament as the start of a renewed relationship with the USTA and the start of an annual competition. If this tournament is successful, it should grow in the future and could lead to other USTA tournaments being hosted locally during our shoulder seasons.

“However, to do that, we need to demonstrate how much Bermudians love playing and watching tennis. This is the first time the USTA has hosted a national championship outside of the US and we need to show that Bermuda can rise to the occasion.”

The tournament is hosting the following categories: men’s and women’s singles and doubles in age categories 40, 50, 60, 65 and 70 years. Mixed doubles age categories are 40, 50 and 60 years. Play runs from April 11th to 15th.

There is still room in all age categories for players to register. However Coral Beach would especially like to see more local female entries in the 40, 60, 65 and 70 year age categories, more men in the 70 year category and more players in the mixed doubles categories.

“If anyone has trouble using the USTA website we will be happy to sign them up at the CBC tennis shop or over the phone on 239-7216,” Singleton said.

• The USTA tournament entry link is: goo.gl/sUXPqk. A local website with all the details has also been created: www.ustabermudatennis.com.