By Victor Okoye
Abuja, April 24, 2025 (NAN) No fewer than 40 coaches have completed a week-long ITF National Level 1 Tennis Coaching Course organised by the Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF) in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the participants drawn from the six geopolitical zones in the country, were presented with their certificates at a closing ceremony on Wednesday.
The coaching course which began on April 14, ended on Wednesday at the National Tennis Centre, Package B, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
In a message from the Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko and delivered by Olumide Bamiduro, Director of Federations and Elite Athletes Department, the NSC reiterated the Commission’s continued support to NTF and other Federations to thrieve in the country.
“I want these new set of coaches to be technically alert to the knowledge been impacted on them towards the growth and development of tennis in the country.
“The athletes are the bedrock of sports development, so if we have coaches at nooks and crannies of the country you will see the rapid growth of the game of tennis in Nigeria.
“They should put more efforts now as they aspire to reach Level Three which is the highest coaching standard in tennis,” Dikko said.
Rotimi Akinloye, NTF Technical Director and Course instructor, highlighted the significance of the 10-day training programme for tennis coaches.
He explained that the training provides hope for the future of tennis in Nigeria, as young coaches learn modern teaching methodologies and technical knowledge to effectively guide players.
“Coaches play a crucial role in shaping the careers of tennis players, and their words can either inspire or discourage players.
“Thus, the training programme focused on equipping our coaches with global best practices and modern teaching techniques to enhance player development.
“It was also quite encouraging to see that the participants are young and knowledgeable about the game, indicating a promising future for Nigerian tennis,” he said.
NTF Secretary, Shammah Makpa, said that the importance of the training programme on Nigeria Tennis cannot be overemphasised.
Makpa said that it aimed to elevate the coaching standards in Nigeria, enabling coaches to provide better guidance and support to players.
“By equipping coaches with modern teaching methodologies, the programme can contribute to the development of skilled and competitive tennis players in Nigeria.
“It will also go a long way to help promote the growth of tennis at the grassroots, potentially leading to increased participation and success in local and international competitions,” he said.
He said that the Federation under the leadership of Ifedayo Akindoju as President, will continue to work towards taking the country to greater heights in the world of tennis through developmental programmes.
Chukwunonso Nwabueze, a participant in coaching training programme, shared his positive experience.
He highlighted the programme’s enriching content, which he noted covered essential aspects of tennis coaching.
“Participants learned about the basics of tennis coaching, including training methods for beginners and intermediate players.
“The programme covered specific skill areas such as ball feeding, approach shots, serve and volley, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of tennis techniques,” he said.
Nwabueze who is also the PRO of Nigeria Tennis Umpires Association, explained that he chose to participate in the training for capacity building and development, to further enhance his skills and knowledge of the game.
Rebecca Ekpeyong, a participant from Port Harcourt, said that the training demonstrates a commitment to professional development, allowing participants to stay up-to-date with best practices in tennis coaching.
“The programme equipped participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively coach tennis players.
“By learning modern coaching techniques, participants can contribute to the development of skilled and competitive tennis players in Nigeria,” she said.
Also speaking, Bolaji Bankole from Lagos, commended the NTF for organising the course with a promise to put into use knowledge garnered from the training.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
