Roehampton Junior Educational Forum

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM: The 10th Roehampton Junior Educational Forum took place at Roehampton University, and was an overwhelming success as over 130 players, coaches and parents attended to hear informative talks by experts in their field.

Luca Santilli, the ITF’s Head of Juniors and Seniors Tennis, opened the forum with an introduction to the work of the ITF, ATP and WTA.  He was followed by Carly O’Hara, a member of the ITF’s Anti-Doping department, who gave the players vital information on the importance of respecting the rules concerning banned substances.  

Sandra Harwitt, a freelance tennis journalist, then gave a talk on the role of the media in tennis.  She helped the junior players to understand the importance of co-operating with the media and the value that a good relationship with the media can bring to a player’s professional career.  The subject moved on to social media, with Sarah Borwell representing the Emilia Group speaking to the players on their use of Facebook and Twitter in particular.  She informed them on how they can use social media to enhance their visibility but also warned them on the importance of maintaining some privacy.  Then Daniel Lowen sports lawyers Couchmans LLP spoke about the role of an agent in a player’s career.  He advised the players on how an agent could benefit them and gave them some tips on what to look for when entering into a contract with an agent.

ITF Welfare Officer Kathy Martin closed the Forum with a presentation entitled “Player Welfare – Protect and Respect”, giving the players information on how to look after their safety in the sports environment.

Feedback received from attendees after the Forum confirmed that it was a very positive, educational experience for everyone involved.