In the lead-up to Tennium’s tournament in Belgium, the European Open, a new edition of Street Tennis kicked off in August. Spread over 6 events, this initiative in Antwerp offers underprivileged youth a unique opportunity to experience the world of tennis. The goal is to inspire them and provide a chance to participate in a sport that is usually out of reach for many.
With great enthusiasm, the European Open has been playing a pioneering role with the Street Tennis project for several years now. Belgium’s largest tennis tournament sees it as their mission to make tennis accessible to everyone, regardless of their background.
Once limited to just a few days in its early years, the project has now grown into a full-fledged platform where efforts are combined to teach a significant number of young people to play tennis and then integrate them into a tennis club. Perhaps a new top talent will emerge from Street tennis?
A powerful partnership for a noble cause
Gijs Kooken, CEO of Tennis and Padel Vlaanderen, explains: “Giving children a racket to hit a ball for the first time and getting bitten by it is at the core of our work at Tennis Vlaanderen. Every child has the right to experience this beautiful sport, and that is why we are happy to contribute to this wonderful project in collaboration with the European Open. The largest tournament in the country and we as the tennis federation bring a strong combination of heroes and grassroots tennis to the streets of Antwerp.” He adds: “I also want to thank our main partner Ethias for their financial support in making the lessons and guidance possible.”
From streets to tennis clubs
The initiative targets youth who otherwise have little to no opportunity to come into contact with tennis. Towards the end of the summer, these children will be enthusiastically guided to one of our Antwerp tennis clubs by vzw Sportpret and the leisure mediators of the City of Antwerp. During the winter training series, they will have the chance to further develop their tennis talent and truly discover what the sport has to offer.
Peter Wouters, Sports Minister, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “In the run-up to a new top edition of the European Open at the Lotto Arena, we bring tennis to the city and give the local youth the chance to hit a (first) ball under expert guidance. Not on hardcourt, clay, or grass, but on the familiar surface of the Antwerp streets, where Sporting A sees much talent emerging. Whether they have a talent for tennis or not, as long as the children have a fun and active time. Getting young and old to move and sport remains the baseline of our sports policy.”
A joint effort
In addition to Tennis Vlaanderen and the European Open, Ethias also plays a crucial role in this project. Thanks to Ethias’s financial support, the lessons and guidance are made possible. Peter Maris, Head of Brand Activation at Ethias, adds: “For years, our goal at Ethias has been to encourage people to engage in sports. From elite sports to amateurs, and this across all segments of the population. Those who are struggling also need our help and motivation. That is why we are pleased to support this project, together with Tennis Vlaanderen and the European Open.”
With Street Tennis, Tennium and the European Open, Tennis Vlaanderen, Ethias, and the City of Antwerp aim not only to promote the sport but also to make a positive impact on the lives of these young people.
