The National Tennis Centre(NTC) welcomed Coach Extraordinaire Mr. Patrick Mouratoglou. For a decade Mouratoglou coached tennis great Serena Williams and during that ten-year span, Serena was victorious with 10 Grand Slam titles: 2 Australian Open, 2 French Open, 3 Wimbledon and 3 US Open.
At the tennis session with Mr Mouratoglou some of the kids represented from the BLTA’s Play Tennis Community Program which is geared towards introducing beginners to the sport for free. The program has introduced over 700 kids to tennis. The program has reached the inner city area and continues to have a huge impact on the lives of the children giving them a positive physical outlet, honing their teamwork and social skills and providing opportunities for advancement. Other kids who have matriculated to the NTC Afterschool program were in attendance along with upcoming players who are new to the junior competitive environment.
Patrick Mouratoglou founded the #1 Tennis Academy in Europe, the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy where tennis stars such as Grigor Dimitrov and Holger Rune were a part. Coco Gauff also attended the Academy when she was only 11 years old. As a leader among leaders, Mouratoglou has been quoted as saying “Make your biggest weakness become your biggest strengths.” His talent as a coach is undeniable and he shares his knowledge constantly on his social media platforms.
BLTA President and NTC Chairman Perry Newton extended thanks to Coach Mouratoglou for consenting to visit with the Play Tennis Bahamas Program kids. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the young children and because of this, they are encouraged to dream big. Mouratoglou is an inspiration to the sport and he transcends culture and nationalities. He is very affable and the kids took very easily to him. We are appreciative to Coach Mouratoglou and his entire team for making the day possible. We also thank Coach Elanqua Griffin, Coach Paula Whitfield, Coach Ted Turner and Coach Mateo Smith who worked hand in hand with Coach Mouratoglou during the session. Vice-President of the BLTA Chilean Burrows and NTC Director Darnette Weir were also on hand.
The kids were enthusiastic and overjoyed at this opportunity. We hope that they are encouraged to continue in the sport, to work hard and to always pursue their dreams. Thank you for sharing your time, talent and energy Coach Mouratoglou and we pray the seeds that you planted in these young minds and hearts blossom!
To view more on Coach’s Visit to the NTC you can view our social media platforms below.
Original Post Date: 11/6/2023
