Two years ago, Beachcomber’s Fondation Espoir Développement (FED) launched a tennis academy for children in the village of Trou aux Biches. Buoyed by its success and driven by a desire to combine discovery, self-fulfilment and the awakening of vocations, FED plans to extend the initiative to other regions. Delphine Raimond
Fifteen children aged ten to twelve make up the second cohort, who last month joined sports instructors Jim Bisasur and Yonel Legrec at Trou aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa for the same year-long learning cycle. Rackets, balls, shoes and adapted outfits are provided every Saturday morning, for two hours of practice combining fun and rigor, initiation and inclusion. Jim is moved to tell us the story of this introverted child enrolled this year: “Naturally avoiding others and group situations, after just a few sessions he began to open up, interact and integrate better. It was very touching to see him evolve like that.”
Among the five promising players from the first edition, selected for a more advanced technical coaching program (which began in April), the two teenagers Whynie Begué (14) and Louana Alexandre (15) had never played tennis before, due to a lack of access to facilities. It’s always impressive to see how quickly kids can progress when they’re curious and motivated,“says Jim. For me, it’s a real opportunity to introduce them to a sport as complete as tennis, which isn’t always accessible. What’s more, this demanding discipline develops concentration, respect for the rules, perseverance… and is an excellent way to stay in shape.” Just as proud as the children and their parents, motivated to give their best at every session, the coach concludes: “What enriches me most is to see their growing confidence and the twinkle in their eyes with every little step forward. The adventure continues… and it’s a beautiful one!”
