{"id":7761,"date":"2024-10-20T09:14:25","date_gmt":"2024-10-20T01:14:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oceaniatennis.com\/newsite\/?page_id=7761"},"modified":"2025-01-28T03:34:54","modified_gmt":"2025-01-27T19:34:54","slug":"pacific-women-in-tennis","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.oceaniatennis.com\/newsite\/pacific-women-in-tennis\/","title":{"rendered":"Pacific Women In Tennis"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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11 Pacific Women Attended the Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Programme in Melbourne<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

11 Pacific Women Attended the Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Programme in Melbourne during the Australian Open as an ongoing Tennis Australia-PacificAus Sports Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Program. This Australian Government initiative continues to empower women, foster leadership, and strengthen the future of tennis in the Pacific region.
Over the past three years, the Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Program has successfully graduated 29 women, equipping them with essential skills in leadership, coaching, and community engagement. The program\u2019s 2024\/2025 attendees were representatives from the following Pacific Nations (Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu, and Nauru).
The Graduates were:
\u2022 Branicia Itsimaera \u2013 Nauru
\u2022 Cynthia Wickham \u2013 Solomon Islands
\u2022 Daisy Sipiti \u2013 Vanuatu
\u2022 Eglynda Bagadouwe \u2013 Nauru
\u2022 Fenuatapu Mesaako \u2013 Tuvalu
\u2022 Karen Fonua \u2013 Tonga
\u2022 Lorraine Kaiulo \u2013 Papua New Guinea
\u2022 Nadya Domasheva \u2013 Samoa
\u2022 Sarojini Lal \u2013 Fiji
\u2022 Suliana Mausia \u2013 Tonga
\u2022 Yvonne Carruthers \u2013 Samoa
The OTF President, Cyrille Mainguy, who attended the graduation ceremony, shared his pride and optimism for the future of tennis in the Pacific. In his remarks, he stated: \u201cThese women are not only leaders in their communities but also powerful ambassadors for tennis and the values it represents. Their achievements inspire us all to build a more inclusive and vibrant tennis community across Oceania.\u201d
The Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis Program continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of tennis in the region. By equipping women with leadership and coaching skills, the initiative ensures that tennis remains a dynamic and inclusive sport that positively impacts communities across the Pacific.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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OTF Makes Inaugural Visit to the Marshall Islands<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Oceania Tennis Federation (OTF), in partnership with Tennis Australia and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), continue to make groundbreaking advancements in fostering gender equality and inclusivity in tennis across the Pacific. The latest initiative, a series of workshops and training programs held in the Marshall Islands, exemplifies the commitment to empowering women and girls in the region through governance, safeguarding, and coaching.
Leadership in Governance and Safeguarding<\/strong>
Lusiana Vakere, OTF\u2019s Administration \u2013 Projects and Safeguarding Officer, facilitated governance-focused workshops that engaged key stakeholders from the Marshall Islands Tennis Federation. Vakere sat down with MITF President Randell Sylvester, Secretary Charlie Donato, Development Coach Francis Heine, Women\u2019s Development Officer Neilani Ackley, and other federation coaches and members to discuss critical topics such as governance structures and safeguarding practices within the sport.
A key aspect of these workshops was the introduction of Tournament Software training, aimed at modernizing operations within the federation. Three members, Charlie Donato, Coach Tanley Jotai, and Coach Maynard, successfully completed the training. This technological transition from manual systems to digital platforms is expected to significantly enhance the operational capacity of tennis stakeholders in the Marshall Islands.
Promoting Women\u2019s Community Coaching<\/strong>
Meanwhile, ITF Level 1 Coaching Expert Sereima Lalavanua facilitated three Women\u2019s Community Coaching Programs, collectively reaching 12 women. These programs are tailored to provide foundational coaching skills and inspire more women to take active roles in tennis development.
Additionally, Lalavanua conducted a comprehensive five-day Play & Stay Coaching Course for MITF coaches, equipping them with advanced methodologies to foster player retention and growth. Participants included Neilani Ackley, Coach Itibwerere (Beeto) Amita, Coach Tanley Jotai, and Wise Josefa Namosimalua, a PE teacher at Marshall Islands Cooperation School and Athletics Coach. This hands-on training will empower local women coaches to create sustainable tennis programs in their communities.
Long-Term Impact on Tennis Development<\/strong>
This multi-faceted approach, blending governance, safeguarding, and coaching initiatives, underscores the collaborative effort\u2019s holistic strategy to drive meaningful change. By engaging a diverse range of participants; from federation executives to community coaches and volunteers; the workshops and training programs are designed to ensure that the impact extends beyond the immediate participants and permeates the broader tennis community in the Marshall Islands.
The adoption of Tournament Software marks a significant milestone in the federation\u2019s journey towards digitization. This advancement not only streamlines operations but also sets the stage for more efficient tournament management, record-keeping, and player development tracking.
Proven Success in Gender Equality and Inclusivity<\/strong>
The initiative in the Marshall Islands is part of a broader mission by OTF, Tennis Australia, and DFAT to increase women\u2019s and girls\u2019 participation in tennis across the Pacific. Over the years, their efforts have yielded tangible results, with participation rates among women and girls steadily rising. These initiatives have also contributed to a cultural shift within the sport, fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment.
As Lusiana Vakere and Sereima Lalavanua conclude their impactful mission in the Marshall Islands, the seeds of progress they have planted are expected to flourish, contributing to the sustained growth of tennis in the region. The collaboration between OTF, Tennis Australia, and DFAT serves as a model for how targeted, inclusive programs can drive transformational change in sports development.
The ongoing commitment to gender equality and inclusivity in Pacific tennis is a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared vision of these organizations to create a more equitable future for all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Lusiana Vakere Completes Certificate in Safeguarding in Sports at UTS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a significant milestone for Pacific sports, Lusiana Vakere, the Administration, Social Media, and Safeguarding Officer for the Oceania Tennis Federation (OTF)<\/strong>, has successfully completed her Certificate in Safeguarding in Sports<\/strong> at the prestigious University of Technology Sydney (UTS)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As part of her training, Lusiana collaborated with an accomplished cohort, including her lecturer and Safeguarding Specialist Samantha Dellamarta<\/strong>, Sydney Lawyer Tom Macken<\/strong>, Lina Caccamo<\/strong> of the Rugby League Players Association, and Matthew Skinner<\/strong> of Queensland Cricket. Together, they explored comprehensive strategies and practices to ensure safe, inclusive environments for athletes across sports disciplines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The certificate program equips professionals with the knowledge and tools to address safeguarding challenges effectively, promoting a culture of respect, protection, and inclusion. For Lusiana, this achievement reflects her unwavering commitment to the well-being of athletes, particularly within the Pacific region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Safeguarding is a crucial pillar in sports. It ensures that every athlete, especially the most vulnerable, can thrive in an environment free from harm,” Lusiana shared during the program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Her newly gained expertise is poised to enhance safeguarding initiatives across Oceania’s tennis community. From protecting young athletes to fostering inclusive practices, Lusiana\u2019s work will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the region’s sports ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This accomplishment also underscores OTF\u2019s commitment to professional development and setting higher standards for athlete care. With Lusiana as safeguarding lead, the Federation continues to build a safe, empowering environment for players and stakeholders alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Photo Caption: Lusiana Vakere (far right) pictured with Samantha Dellamarta, Tom Macken, Lina Caccamo, and Matthew Skinner at UTS during the Certificate in Safeguarding in Sports program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Pacific Women Complete ITF Level 1 Coaching Course in Fiji<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Pacific Women (from Vanuatu, Samoa, Solomon Islands and Tonga) have just completed the ITF LEVEL 1 Coaching Course in Fiji conducted by the ITF Coaching Expert, Martin Setiawan. The participants were:
Naomi Sipiti (Vanuatu)
Eleanor Schuster (Samoa)
Rosie Tupuola (Samoa)
Zorika Morgan (Solomon Islands)
Matina Asimba (PNG)
Omega Ivuyo (PNG)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Pacific Sports Show<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Pacific Sports Show has highlighted the Pacific Women and Girls in Tennis Program in their latest episode! We\u2019re thrilled to see the efforts in empowering women and girls through tennis being showcased on such a fantastic platform. The feature is towards the end of the show, so don\u2019t miss out!Click the link and tune in to see how we’re shaping the future of Pacific sports!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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That Pacific Sports Show: Wednesday 16\/10\/2024<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the ITF AGM (Hong Kong), Tennis Australia won the Advantage All Gold Award for 2024<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

The ITF AGM in Hong Kong from the 9th-11th October has just concluded. The OTF were strongly represented with 14 attendees: Cyrille Mainguy (President); Richard Breen (Joint EO); David Smith (Joint EO); Vicki Reid (Australia); Jacqui Quinn (Australia), Davina Hosking-Ashford (CI); Romil Patel (FIJ), Tara Perez-Steffi (GUM), Torgun Smith (GUM), John Tannang (NRU), Julie Paterson (NZL), Teri-Ann Scorer (NZL), Barbara Stubbings (PNG) and Laurence Lahilaire-Mainguy (VAN).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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During the AGM, Tennis Australia won the Advantage All Gold Award for 2024!
This prestigious award, part of the ITF\u2019s Reward and Recognition Programme, was announced on the final day at the ITF AGM. Now in its third year, this programme is aligned with the ITF2024+4 strategic vision, which initially focuses on gender equality and aims to expand into Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I), with a strong emphasis on wheelchair tennis.
The Advantage All Programme encourages women and girls to reach their full potential both on and off the court, particularly in leadership, coaching, and officiating roles. In 2022, ITF member nations approved constitutional reforms to ensure greater gender balance across global tennis leadership.
Tennis Australia has been pivotal in orchestrating gender-inclusive programmes, upskilling women and girls in tennis across the Pacific Oceania. Thanks to their dedication, more female coaches are emerging on the global stage, girls are gaining increased exposure through tours, and more community coaching and development programmes are being delivered. This is a credit to the outstanding work of the OTF Gender Equality Team who are transforming and changing the lives of so many women across Pacific Oceania.The 2024 Advantage All Gold Award was proudly received by Vicki Reid, Tennis Australia\u2019s International Relations Director, who has been a true champion for gender equality and inclusivity in the Pacific. Also recognised and highly commended at the award for its active participation and involvement was Tier 1 \u2013 Solomon Islands.
Congratulations once again to Tennis Australia and Vicki Reid for this well-deserved recognition!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3rd Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis (PWLiT) Program Underway in Nadi, Fiji<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Posted on David Smith<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The 3rd Pacific Women Leaders in Tennis (PWLiT) Program started this week at the Crowne Plaza in Nadi, Fiji. This initiative, funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and PacificAusSports, in partnership with Tennis Australia, is empowering a new generation of female leaders in tennis across the Pacific Region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This year\u2019s program brings together 11 inspiring participants from 8 Pacific Nations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Fiji<\/strong> \u2013 Saroj Lal<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Nauru<\/strong> \u2013 Eglynda Bagadouwe, Branicia Kaylin Itsimaera<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Papua New Guinea<\/strong> \u2013 Lorraine Kaiulo<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Samoa<\/strong> \u2013 Nadya Domasheva, Yvonne Carruthers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Solomon Islands<\/strong> \u2013 Cynthia Wickham<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  6. Tonga<\/strong> \u2013 Karen Fonua, Suiana Mausia<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  7. Tuvalu<\/strong> \u2013 Mesaako Fenuatapu<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  8. Vanuatu<\/strong> \u2013 Daisy Sipiti<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
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    Empowering Women for Leadership<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Since its launch in August 2022, the PWLiT Program has been making significant strides in advancing women\u2019s leadership in tennis. The program aims to equip women with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to take on leadership roles in their home countries and on the international stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The 2024\/25 PWLiT program features a two-day in-person workshop followed by three months of online courses. This structure provides participants with comprehensive training in leadership, management, and the development of tennis as a sport within their communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Success Stories and Impact<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Since its inception, the PWLiT Program has produced a growing number of success stories, with participants returning to their countries to lead tennis development programs, mentor the next generation of players, and represent their Nations on international platforms. These women are playing an integral role in advancing tennis in the Pacific while shaping the sport\u2019s future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Facilitators of the 2024\/25 PWLiT Program<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    This year\u2019s program is facilitated by a team of experienced leaders from Tennis Australia and the Oceania Tennis Federation (OTF). The facilitators include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n