The South African Tennis Association (Sata) has received a grant of $30 000 (about R184 500) towards the establishment of two Futures International tournaments that will take place between November 22 and December 4 this year.
These International Tennis Federation (ITF) events offer prize money of $40 000 (about R246 000). The grant is part of the ITF Development Programme, financed by the ITF and Grand Slam Development Fund.
The two tournaments, to be called the SATPC Futures 1 and 2, will be played at the South African Tennis Performance Centre (SATPC) at the University of Pretoria.
The SATPC Futures 1 will be played from November 22 to 27 (qualification from November 20 to 21) and the Futures 2 will be played from November 29 to December 4 (qualification from November 27 to 28.
Durand Botha, executive director of the SATPC, said he is proud to be associated with the sponsoring and staging of these events, which form part of the SATPC’s ongoing commitment to tennis in South Africa.
Through its programme of excellence, the SATPC will be awarding opportunities to aspiring young South African tennis players and give the local sports-loving public an opportunity to watch international, top-class tennis.
Ian Smith, CEO of Sata, said Sata views the staging of the SATPC Futures as an important step in giving better opportunities to the up-and-coming stars of South African tennis to enhance their careers.
”By hosting world-ranking point events in our backyard, South African players will be able, at minimal cost, to earn those important points to secure spots on the international men’s and women’s world rankings.
”Our players now have a perfect opportunity to capitalise, in familiar conditions, and get positioned on the international tennis stage.”
With the aim of raising the level of tennis worldwide and increasing the number of countries competing in mainstream international tennis, the ITF Development Programme includes a broad range of initiatives in less-developed countries, ranging from grassroots to Grand Slams.
Special emphasis has been placed on junior tennis where regional tournament circuits have been developed and teams of young players compete outside their own region.
Players who perform well at these regional circuits are invited to join an international touring team. The touring team programme aims to facilitate the transition of talented players through regional and international competitions and on to the professional ranks.
Education for coaches continues to be a priority, as well as the distribution of equipment and educational materials to approved national programmes. — Sapa