Over the weekend, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) presented the Saint Lucia Tennis Association (SLTA) with the ITF Development Award for the Pillar of Participation in recognition of its outstanding contributions to the sport.
Scyla Murray, administrator of the National Tennis Centre, accepted the award during the Central American & Caribbean Tennis Confederation (COTECC) annual general meeting in Panama City, Panama.
The citation highlighted Saint Lucia’s “excellent progression in the development of tennis”. COTECC President Persio Maldonado and ITF Regional Development Officer Cecilia Ancalmo presented the award, which Murray received with pride and deep gratitude.
In a statement, the SLTA emphasised that the honour “shines a spotlight on the hard work and vision of the association from its executive leadership and dedicated coaches to its development officers and volunteers, all of whom have tirelessly contributed to the steady growth of the sport on the island”.
The SLTA said that central to its success is a commitment to inclusivity and opportunity. Initiatives like the Schools Tennis Programme, Grassroots Development Programmes, and National Talent Identification Pathways have expanded access to tennis in communities across Saint Lucia.
“The association continues to prioritise giving young athletes access to coaching, equipment, and competition, both regionally and internationally,” it said.
The past year has seen Saint Lucia return to top-tier international competition, fielding a men’s team in the Davis Cup and a women’s team making its Billie Jean King Cup debut. Beyond ensuring consistent representation abroad, the SLTA has also hosted international tournaments at home while fostering pathways for player development.
The ITF Development Award for the Pillar of Participation underscores the SLTA’s mission to cultivate a strong, inclusive, and sustainable tennis culture – one that nurtures emerging talent and encourages participation at every level.
