Omotayo Fashola
The second edition of the Tennista Foundation Junior Tennis Tournament is underway, offering aspiring young athletes the chance to win educational grants worth N150,000 and potential U.S. college scholarships.
(Tournament Organizers. Photo by Punch Newspaper)
Running from Thursday to Saturday at Lagos Country Club in Ikeja, the event aims to uncover Nigeria’s future tennis stars. The competition features U-16 and newly introduced U-12 categories for both boys and girls.
According to the Tennista Foundation, champions in each division will receive N150,000 in educational support, a premium racket ($260 value), tennis gear, school bags, and additional sponsor rewards. Runners-up will be awarded N100,000 along with similar packages, while all participants will take home consolation prizes.
Michael Nwoseh, Foundation President, highlighted the tournament’s growth since its debut last year at Rowe Park, Yaba, emphasizing enhanced organization and sponsorship.
“Our inaugural event was successful, but this year we’ve elevated the experience with a prime venue and stronger partnerships. Raising the bar excites us,” he remarked.
Nwoseh also shared plans to secure U.S. tennis scholarships for exceptional players through collaborations with the American Business Council Nigeria.
“We’re forging ties with American institutions to combine academics and athletics, empowering youth through tennis,” he explained, stressing the foundation’s commitment to equal opportunities for male and female competitors.
Tunde Benson, Lagos Country Club’s tennis division captain, expressed pride in hosting the event, citing the club’s legacy in nurturing young talent across sports.
Joy Lawal of the American Business Council Nigeria praised the initiative for fostering discipline and confidence in participants, aligning with their economic development goals.
Coach Patrick Oche emphasized the tournament’s role in talent identification, noting Nigeria’s abundance of untapped potential.
Defending champion David Edward lauded the competition as a premier platform for junior players to showcase and refine their skills.
Sponsors include the American Business Council, MunchIt, Minimie, and Indomie.
