Tunisia tennis meeting to discuss govt meddling

Thato Kala | Friday November 29, 2013 16:05

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) expressed strong concern over government interference in the sport during the 2013 ITF Annual General Meeting in Paris, France in July. And when African countries’ respective federation presidents converge this weekend, CAT is expected to take the same stance. One of the items on the agenda is the amendment of the constitution. “We will also discuss amendments to the constitution as well as aligning it with the ITF one and making African nations to comply with international rules,” Amanze told Mmegi Sport shortly before his departure.

He said tennis had not really looked into the issue of government departments meddling in the affairs of the game, but the world governing body had stressed it would take stern measures against such.

“Tennis was not operating like football guys. ITF was not pushing it that much but since July this year after approval from the Paris meeting it has now been adopted that a if a government interferes with the running of sport that country will be suspended from all ITF activities,” Amanze said. African countries will also push to see if ITF can avail more funds for affiliates.

“We want to see them do what FIFA does. Of course they are doing fine, but we need them to do a bit more,” he added. CAT will also look to empower countries to draw up coaching and development programmes and only seek approval from the continental and world governing tennis bodies. Amanze will come back on Tuesday in time to witness the conclusion of the ongoing Level Two coaching course being hosted in Gaborone. South Africa’s Riani Kruger is conducting the course for 20 participants from various countries in the region.

Straight after the course, the junior national team goes into camp in preparation for the African Junior Championships. Amanze said preparations to host the tournament that runs from January 5 to 12 were on course.

He believes it presents good preparatory ground for the Africa Youth Championships. “It’s a good precursor to the African Youth Games to be hosted by Botswana. Countries will test venues and our players will be competing.”