KTF’s free youth tennis clinic kicks off in Port Harcourt with over 200 children, fostering grassroots sports talent.
KTF Launches Free Youth Tennis Clinic in Port Harcourt
The Kodian Tennis Foundation (KTF) launched its annual free youth tennis clinic last Monday at Port Harcourt Club 1928.
The ongoing program has attracted over 200 participants, ranging from four to twelve years old, for intensive tennis training.
The opening ceremony drew a large audience, including parents and stakeholders from different walks of life across the city.
Highlights included a fun session with Coach Monday Izomor, known as “Coach Talk to Me,” thrilling children with fitness drills.
Speaking at the event, KTF Coordinator Madam Stella Epegu said the program targets early engagement and grassroots talent discovery.
She explained the initiative began in 2007 during the peak of militancy in the Niger Delta region as a peace effort.
“In 2007, amid killings and cult rivalries, I envisioned using tennis to inspire and redirect youth,” Epegu recalled passionately.
She stated that if untrained youth could wield guns, they could be guided to play tennis with similar determination and skill.
“Today, our foundation has produced players who represent Nigeria internationally and have become professionals abroad,” she added.
Coach Monday Izomor urged the foundation to register players for national competitions to increase their exposure and experience.
He praised the children’s discipline and eagerness, calling the clinic’s progress impressive and promising for Nigerian tennis development.
“I’m impressed by their conduct and vision. With guidance, these kids can become champions on national and international levels,” he said.
