New Team To Lead Lawn Tennis Association
The membership of the Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association [BLTA] has ushered in a new executive team charged with reinvigorating the game.
At the Annual General Meeting of the BLTA held on Wednesday [March 18], Michael Wolfe, was named President of the BLTA and Ricky Mallory was appointed Vice President with responsibility for tennis programming and the Pro Registry.
A spokesperson said, “Michael Wolfe previously served as Vice President and Treasurer on the Executive of the Temple of Tennis. He has an extensive background and understanding of tennis in Bermuda and brings strong business acumen from his profession as head of IT for large international companies.
“Ricky’s tennis history as a former number 1 player on the island, international experience and passion for the sport make him the ideal candidate for the position of Vice President.”
Michael Wolfe said, “We have a vision for the future which includes setting high standards of accountability for ourselves, our players, and our coaches and clubs. We will strive continuously to create the best environment for tennis to flourish in Bermuda. I’m excited about the opportunities and keen to get to work.”
Photo: [from left to right]: Charles Penroddocke [Vice President], Sarah Cook [Treasurer], Michael Wolfe [President], Judith Turnquest [Secretary] and Ricky Mallory [Vice President]
Ricky Mallory commented, “For years I’ve played and coached, and it’s the right time for me to take the next step and focus on developing quality tennis programmes on the island. We must develop our young talent and foster adult programmes to reenergize the sport of tennis for everyone.”
The spokesperson said, “Joining Michael and Ricky in leading new tennis initiatives is a dedicated team of individuals:
- Sarah Cook has been named Treasurer. Sarah is a Chartered Accountant and a long-time volunteer and tennis player.
- Judith Turnquest has been named Secretary. Judith brings a deep understanding of local charity requirements together with years of tennis experience.
- Charles Penroddocke has been named Vice President in charge of Operations. Charles has been instrumental in running the men’s winter league for the last five years and brings his business savvy expertise with years of international business know-how.”
“I’m confident we have the best team in place to achieve our goals. It’s important to us that we have strong fiscal responsibility and good governance in place, as we are entrusted to run this organization to benefit the community”, said Mr Wolfe.
“Equally so, we want to ensure that we continue to maximize opportunities and put funds to work in the right places to grow and enhance our tennis programmes.”
The BLTA Executive is elected for the next two years to oversee the development of tennis in Bermuda. One of the first objectives for the forthcoming year will be a comprehensive communication campaign.
The spokesperson said, “Our goal is to ensure that the community understands our plans; that we listen to our players, coaches and clubs and understand their needs; and that we build stronger ties with Government and private sector sponsors, whose commitment to tennis is invaluable to our success. The new Executive thanks the outgoing Executive for their time and commitment.”
“These are volunteer roles, and we know it’s not easy, the fact that people give of their time is a testament to their passion for the sport, we thank the outgoing executive and look forward to building on their work.” said Mr Wolfe.
The BLTA’s first order of business will be on March 23rd for the first round of meetings with the International Tennis Federation [ITF] Development Officer for the Caribbean, John Goede. Mr. Goede arrives on island to conduct several meetings and provide updates on the current ITF global standards.
“The ITF is the global tennis body, which govern tennis around the world, and the BLTA as the local association must report and comply with global standards”, the spokesperson said. “The BLTA Executive intends to take full advantage of this visit to capitalize on ITF’s expertise for Bermuda. For more information on tennis in Bermuda please contact the BLTA President via email at mwolfe@blta.bm.”
