Inspiring Growth: Building the Foundations of Lawn Tennis Development in Guyana

Tennis in Guyana has long existed on the fringes of mainstream sport, held back by limited access, low visibility, and a lack of structured programs. Yet, beneath the surface lies a wealth of untapped talent and enthusiasm—qualities that Kalyca Fraser set out to nurture through a dynamic community-based tennis initiative.

Launched with the vision of building a sustainable tennis culture in Guyana, this project focused on accessibility, skill development, and grassroots promotion. From weekly training sessions to mini-tournaments and targeted outreach, the initiative created consistent opportunities for young players to experience tennis in a supportive, structured environment.

Operating out of the National Racquet Center in Georgetown, the program utilized two courts and a back wall for training. Sessions were held every Saturday and led by a small but dedicated team of 1–3 coaches and volunteers. Using Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) frameworks and Level 1 coaching principles, the team crafted engaging, age-appropriate sessions designed to build not only tennis skills but also discipline, confidence, and teamwork.

In just four months, more than 50 children had enrolled and remained actively engaged—an impressive retention rate for a sport that previously struggled to gain traction locally. Structured progression models and regular mini-tournaments kept players motivated while giving coaches and parents clear insights into each child’s development. Monthly progress reports helped strengthen family involvement, building a stronger connection between the sport and the community.

The initiative’s reach extended beyond the courts through the distribution of flyers, informal media promotion, and word-of-mouth advocacy. Parents, once unfamiliar with the sport, became vocal supporters, and community feedback indicated growing excitement around tennis as a viable, inclusive activity for children. As awareness spread, the perception of tennis shifted from an elite pastime to an accessible sport open to all.

With support from the Guyana Tennis Association and a

contribution from the Guyana Olympic Association, the program was able to offer prize incentives and cover some logistical costs. These partnerships also helped boost the program’s legitimacy, paving the way for future institutional backing.

One of the most notable achievements was the successful integration of structured play into both Saturday and school-based sessions. Players began to show marked improvement in skill and match readiness, with several preparing to enter local U12 events—a sign that the development pipeline is starting to take shape.

Looking ahead, the program plans to expand to twice-weekly sessions, grow its volunteer base, and enhance its sponsorship efforts. Strengthening ties with schools and national sports bodies will be key to ensuring long-term sustainability, along with leveraging social media to attract new participants and supporters.

In a country where tennis has often flown under the radar, this grassroots effort is changing the game—one serve, one session, and one child at a time. By investing in community-driven sport, Guyana is not just growing players—it’s cultivating a culture.