The Independence Stadium Tennis Courts in Bakau were a hub of energy and youthful passion as the 2025 Africell U-13 Lawn Tennis Open Championship wrapped up in grand style on Sunday, June 15th. The three-day event, held from 13th to 15th June, brought together talented young tennis players from across the country in a spirited competition aimed at nurturing grassroots talent.
Organized by former national tennis champion and IOC-approved coach Daniel Able-Thomas, under the banner of Visionary to Develop Gambian Tennis Stars and Professionals (VDGT.SP), the tournament was fully sponsored by Africell Gambia as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations.
Representing the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, and deputizing on behalf of the Acting Executive Director of the National Sports Council, Sara Camara, the Communication and PR Manager at NSC, delivered a rousing motivational speech during the closing ceremony.
“It is a great pleasure to join you at the conclusion of what has been an exciting and inspiring Africell U-13 Open Lawn Tennis Championship,” Mr. Camara said. “I stand here proudly on behalf of the Acting Executive Director of the National Sports Council, representing the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, who sends his warmest regards and congratulations to all of you.”
He commended Africell and the organizing team for their vision in promoting youth sports, noting that the event symbolized more than just a tournament.
“This championship was not just about tennis—it was about opportunity, youth empowerment, and building a platform for the next generation of Gambian champions.”
To the young athletes who participated, Camara offered warm congratulations, encouraging them to stay focused and continue believing in themselves. “Whether you won a trophy today or not, you’ve all demonstrated exceptional courage, sportsmanship, and determination. Every serve, every point, every lesson—win or lose—is preparing you for bigger stages in life.”
He also took the moment to recognize the invaluable role of parents and coaches in shaping the children’s development. “Your love, your sacrifices, and your belief in these children are what make this possible. Please continue to support them—because you are not just shaping athletes, you are shaping future leaders.”
On behalf of the Ministry and the National Sports Council, Camara reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to support youth and sports development across The Gambia.
“We believe in the potential of Gambian children, and we will continue to work towards creating more opportunities like this across all regions and sporting disciplines.”
He closed with a powerful call to action.
“Today, we witnessed more than a game. We witnessed dreams taking shape. Let’s continue to nurture these dreams—because the future of Gambian sports starts right here, with our children.”
The tournament ended with prize presentations to winners and certificates to all participants, marking another milestone in The Gambia’s journey toward producing future tennis stars.