Gavin Manders began the 2010 Bermuda Lawn and Tennis Association (BLTA) season the same way he ended the 2009 campaign, winning the first tournament of the season, 6-4,6-3 over David Thomas.

Manders, who recently won the Ball State University interschool tournament in Indiana, made it three Deloitte Open titles in a row on Sunday at Pomander Gates and also continued his amazing run of winning every domestic title dating back to 2008.

Playing doubles Davis Cup team-mate Thomas in the final, the 23-year-old had the better of his good friend in straight sets.

"It definitely feels good to continue my winning streak, I now have won six straight BLTA sanctioned tournaments dating back to 2008," said Manders. "My love for the game continues to grow with every kid I teach, and even though I train hard, they play an important role in my success; something I have learned from all the stories about my great Uncle Cromwell Manders.

"I played my friend and doubles partner David Thomas in the final, who has worked extremely hard on his game and fitness as I have seen the work put in at our university, Ball State.

"He has raised his game tremendously but my heart and determination allowed me to come out on top."

"Being the defending champion and number one comes with a lot of pressure but I love playing under pressure and having to rise to the occasion.

"It feels good to defend my title especially having to battle all three of my Davis Cup team-mates in a row."

Manders will now be the sole member of Bermuda's victorious 2009 Davis Cup team when the Island moves up a division and takes on the likes of Aruba, Bahamas, Costa Rica, Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica and hosts Puerto Rico this July in the Americas Zone Group III.

Manders had a superb year in 2009, which culminated in him winning Male Athlete of the Year.

n Anthony Jeremiah, development officer for English speaking countries in Bermuda's region, is on the Island, attending the training sessions of 13 and under players and will also meet all the parents of the national team players.

Jeremiah will also attend the national coordinator meeting today, meet the Bermuda Olympic Committee and will meet with the Director of Sport, Norbert Simons, during his stay.