The Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) continues to lead the charge to train and expand the pool of certified coaches in The Bahamas.

Expanding coaches is a direct correlation to increasing players into the sport. Recognising that Tennis Development at all levels is key, the BLTA is hosting a Play Tennis Coaching Course at its National Tennis Centre from May 25 -27. 

Providing opportunities for interested persons to become certified coaches in The Bahamas has been a tenant of this administration from inception and they have lived up to their goals.

The course is led by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) Development Officer for the Caribbean John Goede. The course participants include aspiring tennis coaches, Davis Cup and Billie Jean Cup members, tennis collegiate athletes, current coaches and tennis juniors. 

“We have participants from Grand Bahama, Eleuthera and New Providence,” the BLTA said. “The course was open to all and has been fully subscribed.”

BLTA president Perry Newton is pleased to host this coaching course.

“It is important to continually add to the coaching pool and to train the next generation of coaches. We are thankful for the support of the ITF and Mr Goede in helping us to fulfill this goal. 

“We hope the new coaches will take all they have learned and implement it. The BLTA expects to offer a Coaching Beginner and Intermediate Players course in the future which is the next level in the coaching ladder for these participants.  

‘We continue to build on a very important pillar of tennis, coaching. It is on this foundation we hope to fuel future development and growth. We have a great group of coaches including seven females. It shows the diversity and inclusivity of tennis in The Bahamas which is promoted by the BLTA.”

The participants are undergoing a structured training program that includes in-class and  on-court training and at the end of the four-day session on Monday, The Bahamas will welcome approximately 12 new certified coaches to the coaching ranks.  

This national certification will equip the coaches with knowledge and skills to teach beginner players at a quality level. 

The BLTA is providing a pathway as the training courses reflect levels to help coaches progress through different stages of development, gaining more responsibility and expertise as they advance.