Clark Francis Tennis will be holding its first Starter Tournament on Friday for children aged between four to nine years, and there’s still time to sign up before today’s 20:00 deadline.

Gems Modern Academy in Dubai will play host to the Starter Tournament which will have two categories – Tots Skills Challenge (ages four to six, from 08:00 to 09:30) and the Red Starter Tournament (ages seven to nine, from 10:00 to 12:00).

Clark Francis Tennis staff are keen to target players who wish to gain experience through playing the sport without aiming to accumulate ranking points. 

In the Tots Skills Challenge, kids will be introduced to the basics of playing tennis.

Paul Espie, coach at Clark Francis Tennis, said: “The children will be challenged to do different forms of exercise and techniques that are used in tennis. For example, they will practice their forehand and backhand techniques.

“By the end of the day they will earn points after completing 10 different exercises at the various stations that will be set up for the purpose.”

In the Red Star Tournament, children who have just been introduced to the sport will get the opportunity to improve upon their existing skills and techniques.

“The Red Star Tournament is for those who have been playing tennis for just a few months and who are seriously interested in taking up the sport,” said Espie.

“It will be a very relaxed tournament where children will be able to enjoy playing the sport and also get first-hand experience of playing on a tennis court.”

There will be approximately 20 coaches on the day with children playing on 12 mini courts. And, while all will receive prizes and certificates, Espie emphasised that participation in the event was more important.

Espie said: “It’s just not about winning. It’s more about competing and using it as a stepping stone for future competitions. What we want to do is to make sure that we provide a full programme for every level and ability.”

Entry fees are Dh70 per person. To register, email andreas@clarkfrancistennis.com.

VENUE: Gems Modern Academy, Dubai
WHAT: Clark Francis Starter Tournament 
WHEN: Friday, May 23
Sport360 VERDICT: Open to children between four and nine, the tournament is ideal for those wishing to learn the basics of the sport, as well as improving their technique under the guidance of Clarke Francis coaches.
CONTACT: www.clarkfrancistennis.com