Our Sports Reporter
GUWAHATI: After a dedicated journey spanning 34 years, the North East Tennis Foundation (NETF) is all set to cease its operations at the Rudra Singha Sports Complex in the city. The Department of Sports and Youth Welfare has decided not to renew the lease agreement with the Foundation, marking the end of one of the region’s pioneering tennis institutions.
Established in 1991, NETF has played a significant role in promoting tennis in Assam and the Northeast, nurturing countless young talents over the decades. The Foundation has been operating from its campus at the Super Market area in the city, which houses three tennis courts along with other facilities.
In a recent communication from the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare, the decision was explained in light of a broader vision to elevate the sport of Lawn Tennis in the state. The department has outlined a long-term roadmap for the development of the game, particularly focusing on the identification and grooming of Olympic-level talent.
The department has also proposed the establishment of permanent Lawn Tennis coaching facilities at the same premises, with plans to begin essential repairs and renovations of the campus. As a result, the existing operational arrangement with NETF will be discontinued to facilitate these upgrades.
To ensure a smooth transition, the department has assured that all existing tennis students enrolled under NETF’s supervision will be accommodated in the new coaching facility if they wish to continue their training at the venue.
NETF Secretary Ankush Dutta in a brief reaction said that since the Sports and Youth Welfare Department will take back the court, NETF will need to make new arrangements. However, he added that it will take some time to sort everything out.
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