Have you ever thought about what it would be like to learn how to play tennis in a third world country? Probably not. I know it sounds cliché, but we often take the opportunities we are presented at ATA for granted. When I lived in Hong Kong, I was fortunate enough to see what it is like to learn tennis in a developing country, the Philippines. I had the eye-opening experience of visiting CITCI (Cebu International Tennis Centre Inc. ) with my coaches in Hong Kong who have invested their time, money and expertise into developing a tennis program at CITCI.
"CITCI is a non-profit organization whose aims are to provide a safe environment for underprivileged children as well as promoting the spirit of tennis and nurturing future champions. . . . Our goals are clearly defined but also broad. We want to establish and develop a comprehensive tennis program for Cebu juniors, from the grass roots level all the way up to Professional level players. We hope we can take underprivileged kids off the streets of Cebu, and give them an opportunity to fulfill their dreams of becoming tennis players. We hope to offer players a platform from which they may perform from, or a stepping-stone towards acquiring scholarships into schools, through their tennis credentials.”
They currently have eight courts, four shale and four hard courts and eight tennis professionals. From a facility and staffing standpoint they have a good base. However, many of the kids I met did not have racquets of their own or even a pair of shoes to wear while playing. These kids have the same dreams as we do, but do not have the opportunities or even equipment that we consider to be basics.
As the summer comes to a close and we think about cleaning out our closets for the new school year, I would like to appeal to you to donate your old racquets and used tennis shoes to the children at CITCI (they range in age range from 5 to 18 years old). Worn shoes are fine, but preferably without holes! Tennis clothes in reasonable condition would also be appreciated.
There will be a donation box outside of the fitness centre from August 25th (Monday) until September 10th (Wednesday).
Please join me in helping the children of Cebu, Philippines, pursue their dreams on the court and beyond.
Thank you, in advance, for your kind help!
Camilla Trapness