DUBAI The Dubai-based Clark Francis Tennis Academy recently took its players on an eight-day tour to Barcelona ensuring the boys returned home rich with experience. “Travelling is always a good experience for all, we learn from other coaches, new players and experience new cultures. It’s important not only for kids, but also for coaches,” said Andres Gimeno, tournament director at CF Tennis Academy.
He said exposure tours are an important cog in an academy, especially in the UAE during summers. It offers youngsters a great opportunity to understand the nuances of the game in a new environment far away from the scorching heat.
Intensive programmes
Founded in Dubai in 1997, CF Tennis Academy has been offering tennis coaching across the UAE for different age groups. A total of 12 players along with owner Clark Francis and tennis director Paul Espie camped at ProAB Tennis Academy in Barcelona.
“We had an intensive tennis programme. The players were training for five hours daily including physical and tennis from Monday to Saturday and at the end of the week it was a competition with Spanish players,” said Gimeno.
“The main objective was to give our players the opportunity to learn to play on clay courts, getting to know different players, coaches and techniques,” he added.
This was the first time CF Academy travelled to Barcelona but Gimeno said this was just the start. “Barcelona is not only a great place to visit but the tennis and hotel facilities, players and coaches make the experience unforgettable. Our kids were all excited and are looking forward to come back next year.
“At CF Tennis Academy, we are always looking for best places to take our players to, but as our experience in Barcelona was really good I think we will plan another tour next summer,” he added.
Gimeno said the tours also give the coaches a chance to spot talents. “Such opportunities to train intensively induce consistency and confidence in our players. We saw how at the beginning of the week they didn’t feel that secure on the surface but after some days everyone was feeling much solid.
“Some of our best players are now competing internationally in Europe over the summer with amazing results in their categories,” he said.
