Young GTC players get top coaching in Mustique

Six of the Grassroot Tennis Club’s (GTC) young tennis players were afforded the rare privilege of being in the company of a former Wimbledon semi-finalist, Tim Henman of England.

The occasion came last Sunday in Mustique, an opportunity hatched by head of the Mustique Tennis Club Richard Schaffer and head honcho of the GTC Grant Connell.

Reflecting on the memorable trip to Mustique, Connell noted: “I was really impressed by how humble the former champion was and the gentle manner in which he interacted with the kids and was able to make them feel so at home and bring out their best… He is a true champion”.

Connell said that Henman gave the players various tips on their game and he was pleased with their understanding of the sport.

According to Connell, “The trip was a great experience for all of us and they (players) all enjoyed every minute of it. I have to also thank captain Wayne Halbich of Baleine Tours who gave the club a significantly reduced rate and got us there safely and back. It’s great when we all come together for the development of sport and by extension, a people”.

Connell revealed that the excursion to Mustique was one of resilience, as the GTC, after being kicked out from its Murray’s Road place of abode last August, has had to use its resources and contacts to keep the club alive.

Relating to an unsuccessful proposal, Connell lamented: “The association (St Vincent and the Grenadines Tennis Association) and by extension, the National Lotteries Authority and the Minister of Sport did not allow the Grassroot Tennis Club to adopt a court at the National Tennis Centre… it’s hard to keep the Grassroot down. It’s only one way it can grow – cut you may, grow it must”.

Continuing his lamentations, Connell added, “…although we offered to pay an annual fee upfront and bring 12 events to a facility that lacks activity, but that’s life and we have to move on… We, however, have to see beyond personalities”.

Connell vouched that the GTC will, in the near future, be in the ears and eyes of all, as the club pushes forward the throttle and revs its engine again.