Koya Encourages Tennis Players to Thrive
He added that the event continues to expand to other regions with Africa the next continent to join
International tournaments are opportunities for athletes to thrive not only at local and regional platforms, but a chance to chase their dream of becoming a full time professional player on the circuit.
Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport Faiyaz Siddiq Koya made the remarks at the opening of the Punjas 2022 Pacific Nations Cup Tennis tournament at the Regional Tennis Center, Nadovu Park, in Lautoka on Monday evening.
He added the continual cordial relationship between the Fijian Government and Fiji National Sports Commission has enabled Tennis Fiji and Oceania Tennis Federation to make such an event possible.
“Such a synergy is perfect for showcasing the best of what tennis has to offer from our region,” Koya said.
“This is encouraging indeed, to witness many of our junior athlete’s transition to elite senior tennis competitions in Fiji and abroad,” he said.
“It would be remiss of me if I did not mention the growth of tennis in Fiji and the recent events held here including the Regional Championships and International Junior World Ranking tournaments.
“This is an exceptional reflection of our nation’s ability to host a sporting event, an event supported by major sponsors Punjas and Sons; without your contribution this event would not be organised for the third consecutive year.
“This was made possible as Tennis Fiji; lend their ear to partner Fiji National Sports Commission and Punjas and Sons to deliver this event.”
He added that the event continues to expand to other regions with Africa the next continent to join.
Eight nations taking part this year include Samoa, Tahiti, Vanuatu, Northern Marianas, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands and Fiji. Forty-four players are participating - majority of which have recently returned from Saipan having competed at the 2022
Pacific Mini Games.
Present also are executives from Oceania Tennis Federation, International Tennis Federation and Tennis Australia.
Punjas Group Marketing Manager Gopal Jadhav said: “We are very proud of our beautiful country, Fiji, for again hosting the Nations Cup, after a long silence due to global pandemic COVID-19.”
The five-day competition which started yesterday will round up Saturday.