October 12, Chanyanya, Zambia– Continuing its commitment to promoting sports in rural areas, MC-Zambia hosted a five-day tennis training program from October 8-12, marking the official launch of the Tennis Court at the Community Center in Chanyanya.
Around 90 children from MC-Zambia’s Literacy and Numeracy classes came from all over different Chanyanya communities to learn the fundamental basics of the tennis game from two experienced coaches, Butch Hines, and Kabinga Pande.
Many of these children have never held a racket or seen a tennis ball. For them, this initiative promotes both physical and mental activity, while also providing a platform to unite and experience joy.
Speaking from experience, Coach Hines was thrilled to see how the children’s skills and their resilience in wanting to participate improved with each passing day.
“Seeing these children play tennis is incredible. We also formed a great bond with children that I will treasure in my entire life as a coach in these days I have been with them.”
Children also greatly appreciated this community initiative.
Elizabeth Chisapa, 8 years old, shares how the Tennis Court, part of MC-Zambia’s Sports for Development Program, positively impacts her community by providing an opportunity to learn and grow through sports.
“I am so happy to be part of the tennis project! I never thought I could play tennis, but now I can. The teachers are kind and fun, and I love learning new skills every day. Tennis makes me feel strong, and it helps me focus better at school. I can’t wait to keep playing with my friends.”
This court is more than just a place to play- it’s a new way to empower children, keeping them active, engaged, and focused on their education.
Chota Prince, 14 years old amplified this.
“Being part of the tennis project has been amazing for me. I’ve always seen tennis on TV, but I never imagined I could play it myself. Now I’m learning all the techniques and feel like I’m improving every day. It’s not just about the game- it is also helping me to stay focused and disciplined, even in my studies.”
Prince expresses his excitement about being part of something so rewarding by adding that he will remain grateful for this opportunity.
MC-Zambia Local Board Chairperson, Mr. Simon Chisandi, expressed his pleasure at seeing the tennis training program bring together children from different communities. He noted that such opportunities help children develop discipline and critical thinking skills, empowering them to respond effectively to community issues while promoting teamwork.
The tennis court was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Bergman Family Charitable Foundation, the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) Foundation, OnCourtOffCourt, and all of Coach Butch Hines’s friends whose grants and donations helped bring this project to life.
