A community-driven weekend at Ellis Park equipped young players with the tools, coaching and confidence to keep chasing their tennis dreams.
Johannesburg, South Africa (26 July 2026) – Ellis Park Tennis Centre was buzzing with energy as children from the Joburg Tennis Grassroots Foundation (JTGF), Troyeville Primary School, Bertrams Junior School, Yeoville Tennis Club, Turffontein Tennis Club and Vosloorus Tennis Club came together for two days of tennis, skills development and fun.
One of the biggest highlights was the generous donation of tennis equipment. Through Play it Forward Jozi, Yonex South Africa donated racquets and shoes, while Baseline Racquets added prizes and more footwear, helping ensure that more young players could enjoy the sport with the equipment they need.
The first day welcomed more than 60 youngsters onto the courts, where University of Johannesburg students joined Coach Patric Tsunke and the JTGF coaching team to guide players through drills and activities under clear winter skies.
The momentum continued into day two, with more than 120 participants taking part in coaching sessions, fitness testing and community activities. Respected biokineticist David Kopping, together with seven University of Johannesburg Sports Science students, put players through various assessments, while coach Gavin Kampers offered free coaching sessions.
The celebrations also included the unveiling of the Ellis Park Tennis Centre’s Blue Plaque, recognising the venue’s heritage status and more than a century of tennis history.
Most importantly, it gave young players something many budding athletes dream of, that’s quality equipment and overall a community cheering them on.
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