The Pacific Sports Show
The Pacific Sports Show has highlighted the Pacific Women and Girls in Tennis Program in their latest episode! We’re thrilled to see the efforts in empowering women and girls through tennis being showcased on such a fantastic platform. The feature is towards the end of the show, so don’t miss out!Click the link and tune in to see how we’re shaping the future of Pacific sports!
That Pacific Sports Show: Wednesday 16/10/2024
During the ITF AGM (Hong Kong), Tennis Australia won the Advantage All Gold Award for 2024
The ITF AGM in Hong Kong from the 9th-11th October has just concluded. The OTF were strongly represented with 14 attendees: Cyrille Mainguy (President); Richard Breen (Joint EO); David Smith (Joint EO); Vicki Reid (Australia); Jacqui Quinn (Australia), Davina Hosking-Ashford (CI); Romil Patel (FIJ), Tara Perez-Steffi (GUM), Torgun Smith (GUM), John Tannang (NRU), Julie Paterson (NZL), Teri-Ann Scorer (NZL), Barbara Stubbings (PNG) and Laurence Lahilaire-Mainguy (VAN).
During the AGM, Tennis Australia won the Advantage All Gold Award for 2024!
This prestigious award, part of the ITF’s Reward and Recognition Programme, was announced on the final day at the ITF AGM. Now in its third year, this programme is aligned with the ITF2024+4 strategic vision, which initially focuses on gender equality and aims to expand into Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I), with a strong emphasis on wheelchair tennis.
The Advantage All Programme encourages women and girls to reach their full potential both on and off the court, particularly in leadership, coaching, and officiating roles. In 2022, ITF member nations approved constitutional reforms to ensure greater gender balance across global tennis leadership.
Tennis Australia has been pivotal in orchestrating gender-inclusive programmes, upskilling women and girls in tennis across the Pacific Oceania. Thanks to their dedication, more female coaches are emerging on the global stage, girls are gaining increased exposure through tours, and more community coaching and development programmes are being delivered. This is a credit to the outstanding work of the OTF Gender Equality Team who are transforming and changing the lives of so many women across Pacific Oceania.The 2024 Advantage All Gold Award was proudly received by Vicki Reid, Tennis Australia’s International Relations Director, who has been a true champion for gender equality and inclusivity in the Pacific. Also recognised and highly commended at the award for its active participation and involvement was Tier 1 – Solomon Islands.
Congratulations once again to Tennis Australia and Vicki Reid for this well-deserved recognition!
3rd Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis (PWLiT) Program Underway in Nadi, Fiji
Posted on by David Smith
The 3rd Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis (PWLiT) Program started this week at the Crowne Plaza in Nadi, Fiji. This initiative, funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and PacificAusSports, in partnership with Tennis Australia, is empowering a new generation of female leaders in tennis across the Pacific Region.
This year’s program brings together 11 inspiring participants from 8 Pacific Nations:
- Fiji – Saroj Lal
- Nauru – Eglynda Bagadouwe, Branicia Kaylin Itsimaera
- Papua New Guinea – Lorraine Kaiulo
- Samoa – Nadya Domasheva, Yvonne Carruthers
- Solomon Islands – Cynthia Wickham
- Tonga – Karen Fonua, Suiana Mausia
- Tuvalu – Mesaako Fenuatapu
- Vanuatu – Daisy Sipiti
Empowering Women for Leadership
Since its launch in August 2022, the PWLiT Program has been making significant strides in advancing women’s leadership in tennis. The program aims to equip women with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take on leadership roles in their home countries and on the international stage.
The 2024/25 PWLiT program features a two-day in-person workshop followed by three months of online courses. This structure provides participants with comprehensive training in leadership, management, and the development of tennis as a sport within their communities.
Success Stories and Impact
Since its inception, the PWLiT Program has produced a growing number of success stories, with participants returning to their countries to lead tennis development programs, mentor the next generation of players, and represent their Nations on international platforms. These women are playing an integral role in advancing tennis in the Pacific while shaping the sport’s future.
Facilitators of the 2024/25 PWLiT Program
This year’s program is facilitated by a team of experienced leaders from Tennis Australia and the Oceania Tennis Federation (OTF). The facilitators include:
- Andrea Buckeridge – Tennis Australia
- Vicki Reid – Tennis Australia
- Isabelle Gemmel – Tennis Australia
- Barbara Stubbings – Oceania Tennis Federation
- Lucy Vakere – Oceania Tennis Federation
These facilitators bring a wealth of experience in tennis leadership and development, ensuring that the participants receive the highest level of guidance and support as they embark on their leadership journey.
A Growing Legacy of Women in Tennis
The PWLiT program continues to shine as a beacon of empowerment for women in the Pacific. As this third cohort of women leaders participates in the 2024/25 program, the initiative is expected to foster even more impactful contributions to the growth and development of tennis in the Pacific region.
With a solid foundation of support from DFAT, PacificAusSports, Tennis Australia, and the Oceania Tennis Federation, this program will continue to cultivate strong women leaders who will inspire future generations of tennis players and administrators across the Pacific.
Tennis Fiji Hosts Welcome Lunch for OTF Delegates and Tennis Australia – Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Facilitators.
Today, Tennis Fiji welcomed delegates from the Oceania Tennis Federation (OTF) and facilitators of the Tennis Australia Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis (PWLiT) Program for a luncheon at the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club.
Attending the event were Tennis Fiji President, Romil Patel, and executives, alongside esteemed guests Vicki Reid, Isabelle Gemmel, Andrea Buckeridge, and Barbara Stubbings, who arrived in Fiji last night. The group is here for the 3rd edition of the PWLiT Program, which will be held at the Crowne Plaza Nadi on the 6th and 7th of September.
Additionally, the launch of the OTF Advantage All Action Plan will take place on the afternoon of the 7th, also at the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club, aligning with the Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Program. This action plan aims to drive positive development within tennis across the Pacific region.
Tennis Australia Hosts Women Leaders in Tennis and the Elite U14 Champions of the Pacific and Asia Dinner
Posted on by David Smith
Tennis Australia in conjunction with the Australian Government hosted a dinner on the 23rd of January in Melbourne, for its Asia Pacific counterparts in celebration of Women Leaders in Tennis and the Elite U14 Champions of the Pacific and Asia. Acknowledging that Tennis is a powerful platform for gender equality and the empowerment and upskilling of women and girls, the dinner presented itself with tennis leaders from the Australian Government, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs – Tim Watts, Tourism and Major Events – Minister Dimopoulas, ITF President Mr. David Haggerty, Fiji Ambassador to Australia Mr. Ajay Bhat, represent of the Australian landowners Aunty Joe, OTF President – Mr. Cyrille Mainguy, OTF Vice-President, Bruce Osborne and delegates from the OTF and Asia Tennis and Asia Pacific Coaches, U14 players and participants of the Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis.
The dinner also comprised of a discussion panel which included ITF Level 2 Coach Abigail Apisah – Tere, Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Program recipient Lusiana Vakere and Pacific Oceania and TA program participant Colita Hakena. The young women shared their experience and empowerment over the course of a year which empowered, upskilled and contributed to their growth and development both in their professional and personal lives.
The celebratory dinner acknowledged the PWLiT 2nd Year participants and also the efforts and growth of our AO Elite U14 players La Hunn Lam and Colita Hakena and the 16 players that were also present during this celebration.
Pacific Women and Girls in Tennis-Emerging onto the World Stage
Posted on by David Smith
Tennis is a powerful platform for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. Historically tennis has always been a pioneering sport when it comes to gender equality and the equal rights of women and girls in all walks of life. Professional tennis has strong advocates such as Billie Jean King, whose influence and playing style elevated the status of women’s professional tennis. Across the Pacific, tennis is growing in popularity but equity and balance in women and girls’ participation and leadership remains a challenge. Gender disparity becomes particularly evident in competitive tennis and in leadership roles whether that be on court such as coaching and officiating or off court such as administrators. COVID-19 compounded this situation with associations seeing an 80% reduction in women administrators, a consequence of longstanding gender gaps and norms around caregiving.
Pacific Women and Girls in Tennis – Emerging onto the World Stage is an Australian government-funded program under the Pacific Women Sports Administration Program (PWSAP). PWSAP is investing in women sport leaders and administrators in rugby union, netball and tennis with the objective of increasing the pipeline of women Pacific administrators in tennis through professional development and networking opportunities. Pacific Women and Girls in Tennis aims to ensure equal opportunities for women and men on and off the court and works to generate the changes necessary for parity. The program is being implemented by Tennis Australia across Fiji, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu over four years (August 2022 – August 2026) with participants coming from all Pacific ODA countries that are members of the Oceania Tennis Federation (OTF).
By the end of the four-year program, the following interconnected end-of-program outcomes are expected:
EOPO1: Pacific women are empowered to take up leadership positions on and off the court.
EOPO2: Talented Pacific women and girl players have increased opportunities to participate in elite-level competitions.
EOPO3: National Associations governance structures and processes are more supportive and inclusive of Pacific women and girls in tennis.
Operating context
After one year of implementation, the program and its key approaches remain highly relevant to achieving gender equality within sport across the region and the contextual environment.
Whilst the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, this has not limited the ability of the program to establish a presence both in Australia and in-country and the program coordinator, relevant technical experts and program participants have been able to travel and participate in activities as required.
Vanuatu experienced twin cyclones during March 2023, however given the program’s focus in Fiji during the first year of implementation activities continued as planned. Vanuatu Tennis Association is currently undertaking rehabilitation as necessary with the aim of hosting coaching activities in Year 2 of the program even if their court and facility situation remains challenging.
Read the Full Report here
Empowering Tennis Coaches: ITF Coaching Course for Beginner and Intermediate Players
Posted on by David Smith
To enhance the quality of tennis coaching in the Pacific Oceania region, the recent ITF Coaching Beginner and Intermediate Players Coaching Course proved to be a transformative experience for ten dedicated coaches. Hailing from four different nations – Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu – this diverse group of coaches came together with a shared passion for the sport.
The coaching course, which took place from August 9th to 20th in Fiji, marked a significant step forward in advancing the skills and knowledge of coaches in the region. The group consisted of six female coaches and four male coaches, contributing to a well-rounded and inclusive learning environment.
Representing Fiji were Saoirse Breen and Sumit Lal, while Papua New Guinea was represented by Omega Ivuyo Noah and Glenn Cabasug. The Solomon Islands delegation included Dorrine Ningalo, Elizabeth Tesimu, and Zinnia Leamana, and Vanuatu was represented by Keanu Dinh and Teva Maurice.
Under the guidance of ITF Development Officer for Pacific Oceania, Gary Purcell, the coaches covered a comprehensive syllabus that encompassed a blend of online learning and face-to-face interactions. With 80 hours of direct contact with Gary, participants delved deep into various modules and topics crucial to tennis coaching.
The course content covered areas including strategy and tactics, decision-making, court geometry, biomechanics and movement, player analysis and improvement, physical conditioning, psychology, and more. Throughout the course, participants were consistently engaged in a combination of classroom and practical sessions that challenged their thinking and expanded their coaching skills.
To evaluate their progress, candidates completed four assessments that gauged their understanding and practical application of coaching principles. The assessments included a written paper, a level of play assessment, an individual lesson assessment, and a group lesson assessment. These assessments ensured that coaches not only absorbed the material but also gained the ability to effectively translate it into actionable coaching strategies.
Reflecting on the course, Gary Purcell shared his thoughts,
“The coaches demonstrated a commendable level of engagement, and every participant within the group displayed great growth over the intensive two-week period. My hope is that these new skills can be put to good use back in the coaches home nations.”
The realization of this coaching course was made possible through the collaborative support of key organizations. The International Tennis Federation, the Oceania Tennis Federation, and Tennis Australia joined forces to facilitate this opportunity for coaches to hone their skills and contribute to the development of tennis in the Pacific Oceania region.
ITF Holds A Pacific Oceania Female Coaches Network 2023 Webinar
Posted on by David Smith
Gary Purcell, the ITF Development Officer-Pacific Oceania has just hosted a very successful Female Coaches Network Webinar. There were 14 attendees and the topics covered were:
- ITF Advantage All – Introduction and ITF Objectives and Initiatives
- Female Coaches Network – KPIs and 2023 Plans
- Landscape of females coaches in Oceania based on KPIs.
- National Associations Case Studies and Best Practices – Tennis Australia, Tennis Fiji, Guam National Tennis Federation
- Roundtable: Questions and Conclusion
These are the presentation slides that were shared.
Abigail Tere-Apisah – a Certified ITF Level 2 Coach
Posted on by David Smith
Abigail Tere-Apisah (PNG) has returned from the Pancho Alvarino Academy, Valencia, Spain where she gained her ITF Level 2 certification, the first Pacific Oceania woman to do so. This was assisted by the ITF Academy and funded through Olympic Solidarity. The ITF “Coaching Advanced Players” was taught by Miguel Crespo and Rafa Martinez-Gallego and was the final practical part of the course that she has been taking for most of this year.
The course consisted or 4 weeks online theory and a 1 week practical in Spain.
Pacific Women in Tennis-Grant Applications Sought
Posted on by David Smith
The Pacific Women and Girls Programme of Tennis Australia and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade are providing the opportunity for high performance players to apply for funding. The grant is aimed at high-performance players aged between 18 to 25 years, playing ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour events, and WTA tour events, either Singles and/or Doubles.
Players must hold the nationality of one of the following countries: Fiji, Kiribati, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu.
Please note the short turn around of the application timeline: the applications need to be submitted to Isabelle Gemmel at Tennis Australia via email: igemmel@tennis.com.au by the end of the month, 31 May 2023.
Here is the Application Form. which provides further information and lists the questions the applicants need to answer.
OTF Tennis Administration and Social Media Officer Appointed
Posted on by David Smith
The OTF has appointed Lucy Vakere (FIJI) as its first Administration and Social Media Officer. This position will be responsible for providing administrative and operational support to help the Executive Officers with Regional administration.
Lucy will additionally promote social media content and support the projects of the Pacific Women and Girls in Tennis Programme of Tennis Australia in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of the Australian Government.
Tennis Australia releases Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Programme Video
Posted on by David Smith
In January 2023, eight women from six Pacific Nations came together at the Australian Open for their graduation from the Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis programme. This video link showcases their journey. https://www.youtube.com/embed/2ahmn1sUT-A?feature=oembed
http://Tennis Australia releases Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Programme Video Posted on March 9, 2023 by David Smith In January 2023, eight women from six Pacific Nations came together at the Australian Open for their graduation from the Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis programme. This video link showcases their journey.
Pacific women leaders to be celebrated at Australian Open
Posted on by David Smith
Eight women from the Pacific including American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Solomon Islands have arrived in Melbourne to graduate from the Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis program and will also watch all the action at the Australian Open finals.
Tennis Australia’s Pacific Women in Tennis – Emerging on to the World Stage program is supported by the Australian Government’s elite sports pathways program, PacificAus Sports.
Designed in collaboration with women leaders across Oceania Tennis, the Tennis Australia Women Leaders in Tennis program has been adapted to reflect the Pacific context with the objective of increasing the pipeline of female Pacific administrators in tennis through professional development and networking opportunities.
“Tennis Australia is proud of our ongoing relationship with the Pacific and our partnership with national federations to build the capacity of women leaders in tennis. These women are amazing, they have heart and commitment towards seeing tennis grow and thrive within the communities they play, coach and lead in. We are incredibly excited to welcome our participants to Australia to enjoy an amazing AO experience,” Director of Government, Social Impact and Stakeholder Relations Vicki Reid said.
“It is so important for women to take on leadership roles in their communities, so women and girls have an equal voice and the ability to influence decision making. Having more women in leadership positions helps to create a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for all.”
“I’m very passionate about women’s voices in sport, we’re half the population so we should be heard,” President of Tennis PNG Barbara Stubbings, a participant in the program, said. “I joined the program because I wanted to learn a little bit more about myself and how I can improve, and how I can help others improve around me in my tennis community. I wanted to continue to grow as a leader and an administrator.”
“I’m looking forward to the first plane ride of my life, and to seeing what it’s like,” Lusiana Vakere from Tennis Fiji added.
The eight graduates will also attend the AO Inspirational Series on Thursday 26 January, headlined by Billie Jean King and members of the Original Nine.
“I congratulate these eight women from the Pacific on their fantastic achievement. I am sure they will inspire more women and girls in their communities to get involved with tennis,” Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy said.
“The Australian Government is proud to support this program which is enabling more women to take up leadership roles in sports governance and administration in the Pacific.”
Tennis Australia partnership Set to Boost Women’s Tennis in the Pacific
Posted on by David Smith
The Australian Government and Tennis Australia are working together to provide more opportunities for women and girls in the Pacific region to learn and grow through tennis.
PacificAus Sports, the Australian Government’s elite sports pathways program, is supporting the Tennis Australia Pacific Women in Tennis – Emerging onto the World Stage program.
The four-year program is part of the PacificAus Sports Pacific Women Sport Administration Program (PWSAP) which is investing in female sport leaders, officials, and administrators in rugby union, netball and now tennis in the Pacific.
Higher participation in tennis for women and girls in the region is one expected benefit along with an increase in the number of women in leadership roles, improved access to safe and inclusive sporting competitions and stronger governance and administration of Pacific women’s sport organisations.
The program launched during the finals of the Pacific Oceania Junior Championships in Lautoka, Fiji on Sunday 18 September by the Fijian Minister for Commerce, Trade and Tourism, The Hon Faiyaz Koya, alongside the top female juniors competing in the event, and representatives from Tennis Australia and the Oceania Tennis Federation.
“Australians and people across the Pacific share a love of sport. We are all looking forward to seeing more women and girls in Pacific Island countries playing tennis – including at an elite level,” said Pat Conroy, Australia’s Minister for International Development and the Pacific.
“I’m confident there’s a lot of untapped talent in the Pacific, when it comes to women and girls playing tennis and participating at all levels of the game. The Australian Government is please to support this program, which will allow this talent to shine.”
Building on the programs offered by Tennis Australia as part of its Women and Girls Strategy, the program aims to increase women’s leadership in the Pacific through three key initiatives:
- Building the in-country capacity of women coaches to graduate to international standards, advancing their careers in coaching.
- Providing the talent pathways for girls and women to stay and excel in tennis.
- Leveraging and adapting Tennis Australia’s ‘Women Leaders in Tennis’ program to increase the pipeline of female administrators in the sport.
“The Oceania Tennis Federation welcomes this support from the Australian Government, in partnership with Tennis Australia. It will enable Oceania Tennis to create further opportunities in the region for our women and girls to be involved in all aspects of the sport,” said Oceania Tennis Federation President Cyrille Mainguy.
“Our Oceania Tennis Federation Board is proud to have equal gender representation, and this funding will further enable the development of women leaders in administration roles across the region, as well as support our talented coaches, officials, and players to develop their skills and pursue a career in tennis.
“This program will benefit many women and girls in the Pacific by helping to increase opportunities throughout all aspects of tennis including participation, administration and talent,” Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley said.
“We are incredibly proud to continue to support tennis in the Pacific and talented girls and women striving for a professional tennis career. This program will also help provide a pathway for women to develop further skills and knowledge in order to become sports administrators or committee members.”
Pacific Women’s Sports Administration Program
Posted on by David Smith
Barbara Stubbings, the President of the Papua New Guinea Tennis Federation writes that “A new partnership between Tennis Australia and the Oceania tennis Federation (OTF) with the support of the Australian Government was launched at the closing ceremony of the Pacific Oceania Junior Championships in the presence of players and coaches. The following dignitaries were acknowledged and thanked for their presence to witness the Launch, as well as the successful conclusion of the POJC:
Hon. Alvick Maharaj – Assistant Minister for Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations and Youth & Sports
Songhie Tatipata – Second Secretary-Political, Australian High Commission, Fiji
Gary Purcell – ITF Development Officer – Pacific Oceania Region
Richard Breen – OTF Joint Executive Officer
Vicki Reid – Tennis Australia Director – Government, Community and Stakeholder Relations, OTF Board Member and ITF Gender Equity Committee Member
Andrea Buckeridge – Facilitator – PWSAP Workshop
Rajiv Singh – Tennis Fiji – President
Davina Hosking-Ashford – Tennis Cook Islands President, OTF Board Member
Florence Wasko – Tennis American Samoa Vice President, OTF Board Member
The Pacific Women’s Sports Administration Program (PWSAP) is the initiative of Tennis Australia, led by Vicki Reid, with assistance from Richard Breen, and the Australian Government under the Australia Pacific Sports Partnership Program.
The Program is being funded over a 4-year period, from August 2022 to 2026, and aims to create a pipeline of women in tennis, to be identified and developed in three key areas to ensure we retain and increase their participation in our sport.
Coaching – To build the number of women coaches in each country to attain international standards which will help lead to careers in coaching. The goal after 4 years is to have the very first female BJK Cup Captain.
Players – Provide pathways for our junior and senior female athletes (14 to 24 years) to stay in tennis and assist those who wish to excel in the sport through safe and inclusive competitions – transitioning to the junior/senior ITF circuit.
Administration and Governance – Leverage Tennis Australia’s ‘Women Leaders in Tennis’ program to develop the current female administrators and assist in growing the pipeline of female administrators to assist in succession planning for each nation.
The inaugural 2022/2023 PWSAP cohort will involve 10 female leaders participating in 3 workshops (1 in person, 2 online sessions) over 4 months, commencing on Sunday 18th September 2022 and culminating in a graduation to be held at the 2023 Australian Open in Melbourne.
The 2022/2023 PWSAP included the following:
Barbara Stubbings – PNG Tennis – President, OTF Board Member & Gender Equity Rep.
Davina Hosking-Ashford – Tennis Cook Islands – President, OTF Board Member
Florence Wasko – Tennis American Samoa – Vice-President and Coach, OTF Board Member
Ernestine Rengiil – Palau Tennis – President
Sarah Sands – Vanuatu Tennis – Acting Secretary General
Steffi Carruthers-Thomson – Tennis Samoa – Board Member and Coach
Doreen Numa Ningalo – Solomon Islands Tennis – Board Member and Coach
Sereima Lalavanua – Tennis Fiji – Secretary and Coach
Donna Rini Naisau – Tennis Fiji – Administration
Lucy Vakere – Tennis Fiji – Administration
Facilitators – Vicki Reid and Andrea Buckridge – Tennis Australia
Day One of the PSWAP, at the Tanoa Waterfront Conference Room, Lautoka commenced with a meet and greet, before being taken through the course framework by Andrea Buckeridge– understanding leadership styles, emotional intelligence, effective communication and energy flows. Day Two focussed on a review and reflection of the previous day’s work and discussions, and how our learning might frame our current work and how we progress – inclusion, diversity, respect and design thinking.
The participants were extremely grateful to Vikki and Andrea, who were able to present and lead this first workshop in a professional manner respectful of each and every member present. You provided a safe, welcoming environment that allowed each and every participant to communicate and participate freely without fear of failure or judgment. Thank you!
The greatest take-a-way for the majority of the participants, was that we were all in the same boat – all going through very similar challenges and struggles in our Nations. It was heartening for many to know they were not on their own. Open discussion and structured activities allowed the participants to understand leadership styles, design thinking and their individual personalities to lead discussions and resolve difficult situations in their tennis communities .
The first workshop was very productive, with participants keen to share the knowledge learnt and the activities undertaken with members of their own tennis federations or communities.
Thank you again to Tennis Australia and the Australian Government for this wonderful initiative for the women of the Pacific Islands region.
Sereima Lalavanus Debelavu(FIJ) attends Coaching Course in Cambodia
Posted on by David Smith
From August 1st to 12th Sereima Lalavanus Debelavu (Lala) from Fiji took part in a Coaching Beginner and Intermediate Course (CBI) in Cambodia alongside coaches from Cambodia, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Timor Leste.
Tutors on the course were: Amir Borghei (ITF), Gary Purcell (ITF), Jonathan Stubbs (ITF)
The ITF CBI course is the follow-up course to the ITF Play Tennis course, to progress from
assistant coach to coach level. It is an 86-hour blended learning course with face-to-face and
online subjects. Gary Purcell advises that “before the face-to-face component of the course, Lala completed online courses in the
following areas:
• Introduction to the CBI Players Course
• Safeguarding
• Knowing Yourself as a Coach
• Player Development
• Introduction to Strategy and Tactics
• Teaching Methodology
• Skill Acquisition
• Biomechanics and Movement
• Analysis and Improvement
• Competition
• Doubles
• Physical Conditioning
• Psychology
• Dealing with Parents
• Sports Medicine, Growth and Development
• Coaching Players with Disability
• Group Lesson
• Individual Lesson
During the 12-day face to face course, Lala showed exceptional professionalism and energy.
Lala quicky became one of the leaders withing the group of 13 candidates and was very
popular with her fellow candidates and Tutors.
Following the course Lala along with the other coaches received certificates of attendance
from the CEO and General Secretary of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia H.E Mr.
Vath Chamroeun.
Tennis New Zealand Assist 2 New OTF Board Members with their “New To Governance Programme.”
Posted on by David Smith
A couple of months ago, Tennis New Zealand invited 2 new OTF Board Members, Davina Hosking-Ashford(CI) and Florence Wasko (ASA) to take part in their ” New to Governance Programme.”
Background:
Tennis NZ is committed to increasing diversity within the governance of the sport. Based on a successful pilot last year, a further ‘new to governance’ programme is being be run in 2022 to support new directors and a pipeline of future directors.
Objectives:
The aim of the programme is to support the learning and confidence building of people on tennis boards new to governance roles. By the end of the programme, participants will
- Understand the role of the board
- Feel confident to ‘be themselves’ and actively participate in their board
- Feel motivated to continue in sports governance
Approach:
The programme will bring together a cohort of 6-8 participants from tennis boards across New Zealand and Oceania. The programme is open to new directors and board interns with less than 18 months experience in governance. Tennis NZ is covering the costs associated with the programme.
An experienced sports governor is facilitating a series of 5 video conference workshops over a period of 8 to 9 months. These workshops will address the fundamentals of governance, plus deep dive topics chosen by the participants, and will include guest panel lists from the tennis governance community. The approach will be ‘light touch’ in terms of preparation for each session. Participants are expected to complete the Sport NZ online ‘Governance 101’ tutorial, and some reading from time to time if relevant for a deep dive.
The programme sessions are spaced out to enable participants to have attended 1 or 2 board meetings between each. This will allow participants to reflect on real governance situations, and to bring live questions to the workshops. At the end of the programme, participants will be asked to provide feedback on the programme, and to share any recommendations for their own boards with their individual board chairs.
If budget allows, the participants will receive an invitation to the Tennis NZ annual workshop and AGM in November 2022 to meet face to face and share experiences. This will foster bonds between directors and future directors across New Zealand as well as injecting fresh thinking into the annual workshop.
Timing:
The programme commenced with a ‘kick off’ conversation in March, followed by the 5 workshop sessions. These will be scheduled as 90-minute zoom calls. Tentatively, these are envisaged being from 6-7.30PM on a Monday from April to October.
Strong Oceania Representation on the ITF 2022-2023 Committees and Commissions
Posted on by David Smith
The ITF has announced the composition of the ITF Committees and Commissions for 2022-23.
Over 200 representatives from 67 Nations, are to serve on a range of ITF Committees, Commissions and Taskforces that assist the ITF and its Board of Directors across key areas of the sport. These appointments reflect the ITF’s drive for gender equality, inclusion and cooperation.
- Belinda Colaneri (AUS) – Coaches Commission
- Isabelle Gemmell (AUS) – ITF World Tennis Tour Committee
- Cyrille Mainguy (VAN) – Regional Association President Taskforce
- Pat O’ Rourke (NZL) – Juniors Committee
- Bruce Osborne (AUS) – Seniors Committee
- Julie Paterson (NZL) – Gender Equality in Tennis Committee
- Celia Patrick (NZL) – Structure and Organization Committees
- Machar Reid (AUS) – Sports Science and Medicine Commission
- Vicki Reid (AUS) – Gender Equality in Tennis Committee
- Terri-Ann Scorer (NZL) – Constitutional Committee
- David Smith (NZL) – Stakeholder Engagement Taskforce
- Torgun Smith (GUM) – Davis Cup Billie Jean King Cup Taskforce
- Mark Woodforde (AUS) – Davis Cup Committee and Olympic Committee
Pacific Oceania Women Attend The Inaugural GVw2020
Posted on by David Smith
Barbara Stubbings writes that
” An invitation from Tennis Australia brought together representatives from the Pacific Oceania Tennis Community to Melbourne, Victoria, for the inaugural GVw2020 hosted by Global Victoria, an international business summit in Melbourne from 5 to 8 March for women, coinciding with International Women’s Day (and the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final!).
The event was an opportunity to open doors, connect and engage with other female pioneers, business leaders and game changers from around the world in the fields of Sport, STEM, MedTech, Transport & Infrastructure, International Business and Government who continue to champion gender inclusive business/sports world.
The Pacific Oceania region was represented by Davina Hosking-Ashford (Cook Islands), Irinieta (Donna) Neisau (Fiji), Roxanne Clark (ITF, Fiji), Sereima Lalavanua (Fiji) and Barbara Stubbings (PNG). Sarah Sands (Vanuatu) was also invited but unable to attend due to ill health.
On Thursday morning Vicki Reid, Tennis Australia’s Head of Government and Stakeholder Relations addressed the Sports conference on Tennis Australia’s international Sporting diplomacy agenda and its activities in the Pacific promoting female empowerment and support. Vicki was later joined by Donna and Sereima who manage and deliver the PSP community tennis program in Fiji. The Fiji presentation was honest and powerful, highlighting issues for women in sports, sports in the Pacific and sport as a tool to promote development, respect and gender equality in our communities.
Other presentations centred around the role of the media in influencing women in sport, sustainability practices and the integration of Universal Design and Accessibility Principles for world class sports stadiums. followed by a tour of the world class Collingwood FC Holden Centre, the oldest sporting club in Australia.
Tennis Australia then hosted the Pacific Delegates and their senior leadership representatives, including Craig Tilley CEO of TA,. Discussions were held on each countries approach to attracting and retaining women in sport. The delegates had fruitful discussions and engagement with the members of TA’s Marketing, PR, Coaching, Development and Tournament teams.
On Friday the Victorian Office for Sport and Recreation assembled a panel of leading thinkers, sports ambassadors and officials who shared their experiences and discussed the role of community sports in levelling the playing field for women and girls and driving cultural change. This was highlighted by the appearance of Billie Jean-King, tennis legend and long-time advocate for gender equality and social justice.
The Pacific Delegation were privileged to personally meet with Billi Jean King following her lunch interview, courtesy of Vicki Reid and Tennis Australia.
On Saturday, all delegates enjoyed the Regional Victoria visit to the Yarra Valley which included a tour of a Gin Distillery, Lunch at the Oak Ridge Estate and Wine tasting at the Tarra Warra Estate
The event concluded on Sunday with our attendance at the Melbourne Fashion Festival, Global Indigenous Runway Show and Networking. A Yarra River Tour and Lunch Cruise was followed up with an evening at the MCG for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Final, culminating with the Pink Concert.
A truly wonderful weekend with fellow Pacific delegates, sharing experiences, ideas, knowledge and learning together to ensure we continue to champion a gender inclusive, equal playing field for all. “
19 OTF Women To Participate in the ITF Advantage All Leadership Programme.
Posted on by David Smith
19 OTF Women will participate in the ITF Advantage All Leadership Programme. This programme aims to inspire women to take on decision making roles and will provide additional knowledge, skills and aspiration to reach those positions. The programme will also provide opportunities for women to develop their networking skills and broaden their networks. Those enrolled in the Leadership Programme are:
* Florence Wasko (ASA)
* Isabelle Gemmel (AUS)
* Jacquie Mangan (AUS)
* Vicki Reid (AUS)
* Davina Hosking (CI)
* Lalavanua Sereima (FIJ)
* Mae Hsieh (GUM)
* Vanessa Rokoua (KIR)
* Terri-Ann Scorer (NZL)
* Julie Paterson (NZL)
* Barbara Stubbings (PNG)
* Ernestine Rengiil (PLW)
* June Langton (SAM)
* Shalom Akao-Waita (SI)
* Agnes Gaote’e (SI)
* Ruth Manea (TAH)
* Anne Criqu-Leissner (TAH)
* Asita Molotii (TUV)
* Sarah Sands (VAN)
The ITF will then follow this by delivering a Mentoring Programme to a select group of women participating in the Leadership Programme. This programme will provide additional guidance and support on subjects such as election campaigning and raising profile and will focus on individuals who could be potential candidates for future Regional Association or ITF Board of Directors.
2 Pacific Oceania Players Receive 2019 International Player Grand Slam Grants
Posted on by David Smith
Two Pacific Oceania Players, Colin Sinclair (NMI) and Abigail Tere-Apisah(PNG) have been selected to receive a 2019 International Player Grand Slam Grant financed by the Grand Slam Development Fund (GSDF). The programme is now in its 3rd year and this is the 3rd consecutive year that Abigail Tere-Apisah has received this grant.
This grant is intended as a contribution towards their competition-related costs, with the aim of helping them to develop as professional tennis players and compete in Grand Slam Tournaments. The GSDF considers specific age, ranking and regional representation criteria when making decisions on which players should receive grants with both Pacific Oceania players deemed to show exceptional potential and will go a long way towards helping both players reach their potential and become stars of the future
Vaiani Dusserre-Valleaux Representing Pacific Oceania at the 2019 WTA Future Stars Event in Shenzhen, China
Posted on by David Smith
The # 1 Under 14 tennis player in the Pacific Oceania Region , Vaiani Dusserre-Valleaux (PYF), is representing Pacific Oceania this week at the 6th WTA Future Stars event in Shenzhen, China. She is accompanied by her coach, Olivier Fabre (PYF).
The WTA Future Stars Programme’s goal is to use tennis as a platform that encourages and inspires young girls all over the World to progress in the sport, to learn the importance of team work, discipline, living a healthy lifestyle and to build a stronger character that will help on and off the tennis court
The Event is from Sunday 20th October to Monday 28th October and Vaiani will be competing against the best U 14 players from Australia, Cambodia, Canada, China, Chinese Taipei, Great Britain, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, USA, Uzbekistan and Vietnam
The format is a Short Set Round Robin Format to determine the single elimination Semi-Finals and Finals. There will be 4 groups of 7 players ( 6 Round Robin Matches per Player) with the best performing player in each group moving to the semi-finals. The WTA rules relating to calling their coach to court will apply
This event will also debut the new Wilson “Triniti” eco-conscious Tennis Ball. this is the first eco-conscious tennis ball which maintains its fresh ball feel 4 x longer than traditional Wilson tennis balls
ITF Coaching Beginner & Intermediate Players Coaching Course
Posted on by David Smith
From the 30th September- 11th October, 15 participants from 5 OTF Member Nations took part in the ITF Coaching Beginners & Intermediate Players Coaching Course (CBI – Level 1) at the ITF Pacific Regional Training Centre at Nadovu Park, Lautoka, Fiji. All participants were accommodated at the ITF Pacific Training Centre House in Lautoka, Fiji for the duration of the course.
A pre-requisite for attendance was the ITF Play Tennis course. This course was held immediately prior to the CBI Course for 9 of the final participants.
The courses were delivered by Gary Purcell (the ITF Development Officer for the Pacific Oceania Region), Roxanne Clarke (The Director and Head Coach of the ITF Training Centre) and Thomas Perrin (The Senior Coach at the ITF Training Centre).
The attending participants came from 5 Nations of Pacific Oceania (Australia, Fiji, Norfolk Island, Samoa and Vanuatu)
The participants were:
Australia – Julia Gorman
Fiji – Annie Shannon, Raynal Singh, Munish Naidu, Laisiasa Qiolevu, Lemeki Veimateyaki, Saimone Lagaverewale, Dale Lawrence, Saurav Sharma
Norfolk Island – Sam Cribb
Samoa – Luisa Tausii, Maanaima Tausii, Mishaela Bonin,
Vanuatu – Michael Malapa, Marie Liwuslili
