Tennis Rwanda Children Foundation (TRCF) on Monday, August 26, launched the 'Future Champions’ tournament, a junior tennis competition aimed at developing talents of young players capable of representing the country at the highest level. Supported by Kresten Buch, the Co-Founder and CEO of betPawa, the six-day tournament is taking place at Cercle Sportif de Kigali, proving a platform for boys and girls aged between 10 and 16 years. The players were selected from across the country to showcase their skills. Speaking to Times Sport, TRCF founder Umulisa emphasized the importance of the tournament, saying, “This is an amazing opportunity for these young girls and boys. They are the future of this game, and we hope to hold this event annually, with plans to organize more tournaments during every holiday to nurture the future of tennis in Rwanda.” “We are truly grateful to Kresten for funding this tournament. Every development requires financial support, and it wouldn't be possible to host such a significant event without it. We encourage other investors to join in supporting these young athletes,” she added. Umulisa, a former professional tennis player, established TRCF foundation to create opportunities for children and bring positive change to their lives, both physically and psychologically, through tennis. Various young tennis players selected to participate in the tournament shared the ambitions as the look forward to using the platform to show what they capable of in tennis. Ines Kelly Nigaba, a 14-year-old Burundian refugee living in Mahama Camp, said, “I love tennis, and this tournament is a great chance for me to improve my skills. I hope to keep playing and represent Rwanda one day.” Greyson Kayiranga Imena, a 10-year-old participant, shared his enthusiasm about becoming a professional tennis player, and that the competition would inspire him to follow his dream. “This tournament gives us a chance to compete and learn from each other, which is really exciting,” he said.
