After a successful summer programme in which more than 250 children learned how to play tennis, the Anguilla Tennis Academy’s After School Programme has kept the momentum. Classes began at the new facility in Blowing Point on October 1 with almost 80 children enrolling immediately.

Rodney Ross and Vallan Hodge with the children

Although the facility is still under construction, the six pristine tennis courts are up and running and are rivalled by no other courts in the Caribbean. The ATA’s Executive Director, Mr. Jason Allen, gave details about the new programme as well as provided information about the eventual plans to open the facility to the public.

Jason explained that the actual building is almost complete and needs only finishing work before an official opening. Currently, there is no electricity in the building or on the courts for lighting. He mentioned that as soon as the electricity is in the building, he will open the office and tennis courts to the public. Initially, the facility will not be fully operational in terms of being able to sell memberships, but the public will be allowed to rent courts. All the proceeds will go towards the operation of the children’s programmes. Jason said, “We are all frustrated with the slow pace of the construction, but with all the development in Anguilla, and lack of resources, the workers are doing the best they can. Nevertheless, the children’s programme is simply awesome and I have seen astronomical amounts of improvement across the board, at all levels, even with the quality of coaching.”

ATA Staff L-R Vallan Hodge Rodney Ross Shauna Richardson Denny Derrick Jason Allen Robert McClean and Calyde Hughes (missing Daryl Thompson)

The new programme has new additions to the staff as well. Mr. Allen hired Shauna Richardson, a former student of the programme and recent college graduate. Shauna teaches at the ALHCS during the day and makes her way to the courts to continue teaching tennis throughout the afternoon. Robert McClean, also a former ATA student, just returned from England where he completed his A levels and has decided to take a job with the ATA before he goes to University next year. Other members of the current staff include Rodney Ross, Daryl Thompson, Calyde Hughes, Denny Derrick and Vallan Hodge. All staff members grew up playing tennis in the ATA programmes since its inception in 1996. Mr. Allen said, “It speaks volumes for our programme that former students want to return as coaches and give back to their community. The coaching staff is amazing and I am honoured to work with them. The children adore them as well and the energy on the courts is very high all the time.”

Children between the ages of 5-17 are invited to join the programme. All equipment is provided and the children play three times a week. The registration fee is US $75 per month and it includes all coaching, equipment, entry in tournaments as well as all other functions. There is a discount for additional children in the same household. For more information, stop by the tennis courts in Blowing Point between the hours of 4-6 pm or call Mr. Allen at 476-0697.

-Press Release

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