To add to the pain for Norris, the Briton finished under investigation for a procedural infringement at the initial aborted start
sports2 days ago
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships spread to outer Courts 5 and 6 on Wednesday morning as a group of more than 80 children of determination from local schools and non-profit organisations took part in a special coaching clinic featuring two leading players from the ATP Tour.
The event was led by coaches of the CF Tennis Academy.
The jam-packed morning featured a range of activities and entertainment, including a special arrival from Ace and Annette – the Dubai Duty Free Official Mascots.
The children who took part in the clinic were each given a fully inclusive session from CF Training Academy coaches, who took them through a range of drills to improve motor skills and improve coordination.
Children from Heroes of Hope, Manzil Centre, Al Noor Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities, Rashid Centre for People of Determination, and Dubai Centre for Special Needs were joined by Robin Haase and Matwe Middelkoop, who won the doubles title at the Rotterdam Open last year.
“It was great to see the kids today and watch them smiling and see how happy they are – they are a great example to us all,” said Middelkoop, the doubles world number 18.
“They brought such good energy and positivity, which is very important for us all to have in life.”
Haase, an ambassador for a Dutch organisation for disadvantaged children, added: “They are so grateful and so happy. Some of them may have never picked up a racquet before and it’s amazing to see their reaction when they get to hit the ball.”
Hollie Murphy, the founder of Heroes of Hope, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing a platform for people of determination of all ages and abilities to participate in sport, discussed some of the benefits and rewards of such a clinic.
“It’s not often there are special needs sporting events,” she said.
“It gave the children a unique experience to step onto a real-life tennis court and work with professional coaches, as well as bringing the community together.
"It was also great for parents to watch their kids being accepted into something such as the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, which brings them all a lot of hope and happiness.”
ALSO READ:
To add to the pain for Norris, the Briton finished under investigation for a procedural infringement at the initial aborted start
sports2 days ago
‘I'm Excited for what lies ahead – it promises to be a thrilling season of golf’ said the 24-year-old who is in his first pro season
sports2 days ago
This event serves as Qualifier Two for the 2024-25 EGF Order of Merit for Men and Women
sports2 days ago
The Arabian Ranches Golf Club event has drawn elite competitors,including UAE National Team player Thomas Nesbitt and low-handicap standout Craig Murray from GEMS First Point
sports2 days ago
The Dubai-born player is tied for 18th, with the top 22 players and ties advancing to the final qualifying stage
sports3 days ago
Sara Engsig dominates the Ladies’ Gross Division with a stellar 69 to be four shots clear of Lucia Maturi
sports3 days ago
Several football games were postponed over the weekend like Valencia vs Real Madrid and Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano
sports3 days ago
Shubman Gill scored a fluent 90 after Rishabh Pant made a quick-fire 60, as the hosts took a slender lead of 28 runs
sports3 days ago