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Premier Dr. Ewart Brown has reaffirmed his commitment to the development of local sport by digging into his own pockets to endorse tennis stars Gavin Manders and Tyler Smith.

He came good on a promise made earlier this year to financially assist the development of both players, who will represent Bermuda in various international tournaments in the upcoming months.

Manders' game reached dizzying heights last year.

The 22-year-old Ball State College student led Bermuda to Davis Cup promotion and dominated the local tennis scene to scoop the coveted Male Athlete of the Year award.

Teenage phenomenon Smith, the top ranked tennis player in her respective age group in the Caribbean region, also impressed.

The Sage Mount High student led Bermuda's 13 and under team to glory at last year's Caribbean Championships in Trinidad.

Of Dr. Brown's offering, which has been deposited directly into Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association's accounts, Manders said: "I would like to thank the Premier and Mrs. Brown very much for their support."

Also expressing gratitude is BLTA president David Lambert. He said: "On behalf of Bermuda Lawn Tennis Association I would like to thank the Premier and Mrs. Brown for their continued support of tennis.

"These funds will assist both Gavin and Tyler in preparing to represent Bermuda in several international world ranking events this year, so we are very appreciative of the Premier and Mrs. Brown for their support.

"The Premier mentioned to us during the Sports Awards Ceremony at City Hall that he would be interested in meeting both Gavin and Tyler to personally assist in their development - and he did what he said he wanted to do.

"He said that he wanted to support them in some way and that's exactly what he did and we are very appreciative of his commitment to the development of tennis.

"With Gavin being Bermuda's number one player and instrumental in helping Bermuda win promotion in Davis Cup and his dominance of the domestic calendar last year, we are very pleased to see him being supported by the Premier and Mrs. Brown."

Lambert hinted that others, such as rising star Neal Towlson, could receive similar endorsements from Premier Brown in the future.

He added: "This could be the beginning of several endorsements. I think this is going to be a continual support."[[In-content Ad]]

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