The Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) has commissioned a 200-seater capacity dual tennis court at the Premier Tennis Club in Tema for the development of tennis.
The project was handed over through the Ghana Tennis Federation.
The facility is aimed at growing talents and training coaches in the Tema metropolis and the country at large. It is also to foster life-long friendships, create lasting memories and mark a significant history in the lives of tennis in Tema.
The facility boasts of an executive lounge, administrative office, two tennis courts, changing rooms with bathrooms for both males and females as well as persons with disability, floodlight, fencing and store rooms.
Speaking at the inaugural handing over, a member of the Premier Tennis Club, Edward Ababio, who was the chairman of the occasion, acknowledged and commended the gas company, its board and the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ben Asante, for providing such an edifice.
“This Ghana Gas project came in time to provide a safe home to the tennis sports in Tema,” he said.
“Today, we’ll warm the surface of our beautiful court. I believe this facility will be a long-term and a historic legacy to the people of Tema and Ghana,” he added.
“As it is handed to the new management, I employ them to ensure that it is well maintained and utilized by generations to realize the potential of many great ones to come.”
President of the Ghana Tennis Federation Isaac Aboagye Duah expressed gratitude to GNGC for its continuous assistance to the tennis fraternity, adding the gas company’s commitment to promote tennis and supporting sports is truly tremendous within the country.
“Ghana Gas unwavering commitment to promoting sports as part of their corporate social responsibility and fostering of vibrant tennis court has really been exceptional and we’re deeply grateful for their imperial contributions.”
He explained that the tennis court represents a symbol of hope, progress and opportunity for talented tennis players.
“This facility will serve as a hub for training, coaching and competitions, providing the tools and resources for tennis players to excel on the sports of tennis.
“This facility will serve as a catalyst for growth and development of tennis in Tema and its environs especially in Ashaiman, creating opportunity for talent to flourish and champions to emerged.”
He continued: “Tema and Ashaiman have been a hub for junior tennis players who have featured for the national junior teams. Kwesi Frimpong, a prodigy of Tema, was the runner-up of the just ended ITF G-30 tournament held in Accra.
“We look forward to hosting an exciting international tournament here in Tema, providing comprehensive coaching programs, fostering a culture of sponsorship and comrades among our players.”
Board member of Ghana National Gas Company Abraham Ossei Aidooh called on other corporate institutions to help support the less financed sports following the sole responsibility of the gas company to extend assistance to support the tennis fraternity.
The facility, funded by Ghana Gas company through the Ghana Tennis federation, will be managed by the Premier Tennis Club in Tema as a public facility.
The board member commended the CEO of Ghana Gas, the board and the CSR Department for the provision of the facility in Tema community 12.
The event attracted the fraternity from Koforidua Tennis Club, Tema Tennis Club, the Premier Tennis Club, Ashaiman Tennis Club and a host of other tennis clubs.