The Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 2021 via Zoom on Friday, March 19th 2021.
At the AGM the financial statements (reviewed by the accountant firm Gomez, Campbell & Co.) were presented by the Treasurer, Mr Timothy Dames. President Perry Newton brought remarks highlighting the opportunities that the Association took advantage of despite the challenging times brought on by the pandemic. The highlights included the introduction of an officiating course in 2020 where 27 participants were formally trained. The course manager was Mr Mickey Williams. The introduction of UTR rating for athletes was also a notable feat during the administration’s first year and the ITF’s World Tennis Number (WTN) player rating will come on stream shortly.
Newton noted that the beginning of 2021 heralded the resumption of competitive match play with the BLTA MatchPlay Series at the National Tennis Centre (NTC) and the kickoff of junior tennis tournaments by the IC Junior Series. The resumption of the BLTA’S Play Tennis Program in Nassau for new tennis players resumed with huge success reaching unseen levels of growth. Grand Bahama Tennis Association (GBTA) and Abaco Tennis Association (ATA) operated similar models of free tennis clinics on the islands. Community programs and free programs led by Coach Cory Francis and Coach Steve Taylor is also reaching many kids in New Providence. Female competitive players were also invited to be mentored by Danielle Thompson at the NTC. The BLTA saw impressive levels of volunteerism as persons are taking pleasure in giving back to the sport of Tennis. There is excitement for this next year of tennis. The intention is to continue to build on a strong foundation. Newton extended thanks to his team of board members for their service and the tennis community for their overwhelming support in achieving the goals.
At the 2021 AGM, the Incorporation of the BLTA was passed with no objections paving the way for the BLTA (acting as a federation) to take advantage of new opportunities. In addition, the new secretary of the BLTA is Mrs Cameel McDonald (formerly Asst. Secretary) and the new Assistant Secretary is Mrs Wendy Bowe. We welcome them to the team!
As we move forward the BLTA is elated to host its first tournament at its National Tennis Centre (NTC) on March 25th-28th. The tournament will feature kids in the U12, U14, U16 and U18 categories. All required safety and health protocols will be enforced.
The opportunities in Tennis are expanding and the framework of sustainability continues to be built.
