Juniors gearing for tennis c’ship

By NAOMI KALATE
THREE Lae-based juniors who are part of the PNG team that will be competing in the West Pacific Regional Championship in Fiji are hard at training in preparation for the tournament, Lae Tennis Club captain Petra Clayton Lam says.
John Louie Domalaon and Casssandra made their debuts last year in the championship and they would be guiding William Thomas who has been selected this year to make his debut in Fiji.
“The trainings were on weekends with the three of the junior going for West Pacific Regional Championships in Fiji next month,” Lam said.
“Training continues with the sessions reviewing and working on loading and proper weight transfer.”
Lam said regular training days were on Saturdays and Sundays at the Chinese Club Courts but in respective age groups.
Lam said the club’s growth and continuous progress was a story of perseverance, patience and endurance.
“As coaches and as committees we are committed to keeping the kids interested in the sport of tennis. You can imagine a 2pm-4pm sun on a tennis court under the scorching heat,” said Lam.
She said most of their help came from the parents who were club committee members who helped with the programmes.
“It’s a team effort. The amount of time and effort coming from the parents, the Junior LTC committee and the coaches is amazing,” she said.
“All efforts and time is voluntary.
“No one is paid which is what makes it truly special. We do it for juniors. All this encourages and develops a desire from all juniors to learn and grow in the sport. And to see three of our juniors, mainly LJ Domalaon, Casssandra and William Thomas selected to play at the Pacific Regional Championships is a proud moment for us,” she said ahead of the regional event.