After an incredible six-year journey, the Lae Tennis Club has become a symbol of hope for young Papua New Guinean tennis players.
Glenn Cabasug, the club president and coach, has led the persistent efforts of the group in making tennis available to everyone in Morobe Province, regardless of background or ability to pay.
The Lae Chinese Club gladly offered the required facilities for free junior coaching sessions, and the club, which was founded in 2018, immediately gained momentum by forming strategic connections with them.
More than five hundred kids have participated in this program throughout the years, giving them an opportunity to improve their tennis abilities and realize their potential.
Notwithstanding obstacles like limited facilities and finances, the club’s persistent dedication to grassroots development has produced outstanding outcomes.
Young talents have grew because of a strong junior development program that is funded by kind sponsors and volunteers; numerous participants have excelled in regional events.
President Cabasug highlighted the transforming effect of accessibility and community support while reflecting on the club’s path.
“When you make the program accessible, if you have it free, if you get your volunteers in place, and if you’re able to gather enough sponsors to come around and help support, then a lot of them will come,” he remarked.
The club’s influence has been further demonstrated by recent accomplishments, as some junior players qualified for major competitions and even represented their country.
Notable accomplishments include the selection of three talented athletes for this year’s Junior Championships and the outstanding triumph of John Louie Domalaon in the under-14 division.
President Cabasug’s commitment and leadership have driven the club ahead in spite of the lack of full-time coaches in Lae, gaining the club recognition and support from institutions such as PNG Tennis and PNG Tennis Director, Barbara Stubbings.
The club continues to offer priceless chances for skill development and exposure to elite competition through programs like the Panamex Open and team tournaments.
While Lae Tennis Club celebrates its successes, it never hesitates in its commitment to developing young people in Papua New Guinea’s talent pool, teaching them discipline, and encouraging a love of the game.