Welcome to the junior and development programmes of the Barbados Tennis Association (BTA). Designed for players aged 4 to 15, our structured programmes cater to every level, from first-time beginners to aspiring national competitors. We also run programmes for adults, so there’s a place on court for everyone.
All programmes take place at the Raymond Forde National Tennis Centre, Wildey, and are led by ITF-certified coaches.
Meet Our Coaching Team
Our programmes are led by a team of experienced, ITF-certified coaches.
Damien Applewhaite
Technical Director
Julian Baird
Head Coach
Trevine Sellier
Assistant Coach
Simon Lewis
Coach
Junior Programmes
Junior Tennis Initiative (JTI): 14 & Under Development Programme
The JTI is the BTA’s core junior programme, giving young players the coaching, match play and support they need to develop at every stage. It is part of the International Tennis Federation’s (ITF) programme for juniors aged 14 and under, and includes the STI, PTI and EDP programmes below.
- When: Monday to Friday, 3:30–6:00pm
- Who: Juniors aged 4–14, beginners to competitors
STI Programme: School Tennis Initiative
The STI introduces children to tennis through mini tennis, using smaller courts, lighter racquets and slower balls so they can rally and have fun from day one. It is aimed at children aged 6–11 and has been running successfully in Barbados since the ITF launched it in 1996.
Players who come through the STI can move on to the PTI.
PTI: Performance Tennis Initiative
The PTI is for our most promising juniors aged 14 and under. It offers regular, structured performance training to help players reach national and international standard, plus competition opportunities at their level.
EDP: Equipment Distribution Programme
Through the ITF’s Equipment Distribution Programme, the BTA receives tennis equipment such as racquets, mini-tennis nets and balls for use in our junior programmes, helping keep tennis accessible to every child who wants to play.
Girls Zone
Fun, fitness and tennis, just for girls. Girls Zone is a relaxed, welcoming space for girls to get active, build confidence and enjoy the game together.
- When: Sundays, 4:00–5:00pm
- Who: Girls 6-16, all levels
For Everyone
BTA Saturdays
Saturday mornings at the National Tennis Centre, with a session for every stage:
- 8:00am: Adult Tennis Initiative (ATI)
- 9:00am: Red & Orange Ball (younger beginners)
- 10:00am: Green Ball & Teens
ATI: Adult Tennis Initiative
It’s never too late to play. The ATI is for adults who want to learn the game, come back to it or sharpen their skills, with coaching in a friendly, social setting.
- Monday & Wednesday: 6:00–7:00pm
- Tuesday: 7:30am
- Saturday: 8:00–9:00am
Round Robin Fridays
End the week with match play. Round Robin Fridays offer singles matches, good competition and a great tennis atmosphere.
- When: Fridays, 6:30–8:30pm
- Who: Adults
Love All Tennis (From January 2027)
Love All Tennis will be the BTA’s new inclusive programme for juniors with special needs. Sessions will aim to be relaxed, supportive and adapted to each player, so every child can enjoy the game at their own pace.
The focus is on fun, movement and confidence: building coordination, making friends and celebrating every shot along the way. No experience is needed, and parents and carers are welcome to stay and cheer on.
Also at the National Tennis Centre
- Cardio Tennis: Tuesdays, 7:00–8:00pm
- Social Doubles: Saturdays, 6:00–8:00pm
- Open Day: Saturday 9 January 2027. Come and try tennis!
Find Out More
For programme details and registration, WhatsApp 234-7987 or email admin@tennisbarbados.org.
Follow @tennisbarbados on Instagram for the latest news.
