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Some of the members pose for a photo after a recent tournament at Cheung Chau Park Tennis Court |
A group of Filipino tennis players has opened its doors to OFWs and beginners who want to learn the sport on weekends.
The leaders of Tropa, a non-profit recreational organization registered with the Societies Office of the HK Police Licensing Office, are hoping that the trainees will be ready for a tournament being planned for September.
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Also being planned is an invitational Davis Cup-style tournament before the end of the year, which will include local residents, retirees, expatriates and the some of the upcoming Filipino tennis players.
The new direction has been led by Rey M. Flores, Rolly Pagaduan, Zaldy Cagata, Bhing Pendon, Arlyn Millado and Mai Bayson who make up the club’s executive council.
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Each member’s improvement in form and stroke are guided by Allan Melendez and Victor Pumicpic, chief trainers.
They and their resident trainers will be offering basic tennis programs on Sundays.
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Melendez said those who want to join can first go to the group’s Facebok page, PinoyTennis Club HongKong (https://www.facebook.com/pinoy.tennis.54), and send a message so they can be included in the group chat and scheduled in batches of four to eight.
“From experience, it's not practical to do lessons for one individual for let's say 30 minutes to an hour every Sunday, while there are many other player members coming to the court on Sundays,” he said.
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A small fee will be collected to cover the cost of new balls, court fees and snacks/ refreshment after. “Normal professional coaching per hour is more or less $600 but our ‘coaches’ will not charge because we are friends with them,” he said.
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The group plays in various venues, depending on availability of the courts such as Victoria Park in Causeway Bay, the HK Tennis Centre on Wong Nai Chung Gap, the King’s Park Recreation Ground, Bowen Road Tennis Court, Chai Wan Park, or Aberdeen Tennis and Squash Centre.
Through their chat group. members get updated information on when and where the group has been able to book their games.
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“The club has continuously been playing friendly games with local residents and expatriates around the territory,” he added.
A recent tournament for men, ladies and mixed doubles was held at Cheung Chau Park Tennis Court, with each tandem wearing branded, color matching head and wrist bands plus towels given by a sponsor.
