The annual coaching camp concludes on December 16

Thinley Namgay 

Around 30 students under the age of 14 are taking part in the month-long tennis coaching camp at the Changlimithang tennis court in Thimphu.

Bhutan Tennis Federation (BTF) is organising the camp that began on November 16.

BTF’s coach Nidup Gyeltshen is facilitating the coaching with the help of two volunteer coaches.

Nidup Gyeltshen said that it was encouraging to see students coming for the training regularly. “Participants are expected to learn ball coordination, serve and score, and fitness.”

Twenty participants will be selected for the under-14 national squad, which currently has 14 players.

Zeksel Jigme Wangchuk, 5, said that the training was fun because he could meet with his friends. “The many trophies in tennis room inspires me. I will work hard to become a national tennis player.” Another participant, Kinley Tshering, said that playing tennis helps to refresh his mind. “It helps me relax and focus more on my studies.”

The federation had collected a fee of Nu 500 from each participant.

BTF’s coach Yonten Gyeltshen said that the federation was in default of budget and most of its activities were cancelled due to the pandemic. “BTF could organise only the junior series tournament due to the Covid-19 pandemic.”

BTF organises major tournaments including India-Bhutan Friendship Tennis Tournament  and Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel National Open annually.