MPTC on a mission to grow the sport

He said tennis is often seen as an elitist sport compared to more popular sporting codes and team sports like soccer, cricket, netball and rugby.

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“It also does not help that tennis facilities in our townships and schools are non-existent. Sporting authorities like the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) and the City of Cape Town should develop programmes, appoint coaches and build infrastructure to assist in the growth of tennis,” he said.

“The goal this year is to turn tennis into a school sport and to create a well-run schools league in Mitchell's Plain,” he said.

“The best thing about coaching is moulding and developing a player from nothing, and watching the player gradually transform into a highly skilled competitor,” said Japhta.