Israel Launches National Tennis Academy to Revitalize Sport

The Israel Tennis Association inaugurated its National Tennis Academy at the Wingate Institute on Sunday, aiming to restore Israeli tennis to global prominence. Avi Peretz, Chairman of the Israel Tennis Association, described the academy as the "missing link" in the organization's professional strategy, emphasizing a long-term commitment to nurturing future talent.

Peretz highlighted several key initiatives, including the "Racquet for Every Child" program, which provided free tennis training to thousands of children, and six regional excellence centers established across Israel. He noted that these efforts are already yielding results, with young regional teams showing progress. The academy itself is the fourth pillar of the association's plan, with a "national home" featuring new clay and hard courts, including covered courts, slated for construction within the next year.

The association is also pursuing regional cooperation with Mediterranean countries like Cyprus and Greece, though plans initiated before October 7th have been delayed by the ongoing conflict. Peretz stated that the tennis industry has been severely impacted by recent events, citing the cancellation of ten consecutive Futures tournaments and an anticipated ATP competition. He stressed the association's efforts to minimize future damage to young players.

Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar echoed the sentiment, stating the academy's goal is to "polish talented individuals like diamonds" to reach the highest levels of the sport, providing comprehensive training, professional, mental, and competitive support. Zohar also announced he has sent a letter to the EuroLeague requesting a review of the security situation in Israel to facilitate the return of games to the country.

Additionally, Minister Zohar proposed naming the new academy building after Major Yuval Ezra, who was killed in the war and whose mother works at the institute, as a tribute to fallen soldiers.