Tennis team's sunny disposition captures the hearts of the Wighters

FRIDAY, JULY 1: If there is one example epitomising the ‘Friendly Games’, aka the NatWest Island Games, it is John and Melissa from the Isle of Wight adopting the Bermuda Tennis Team.

The sunny disposition of the entire Bermuda Tennis Team from coach Steve Bean to one of the youngest Bermuda participant in the Games, 14-year-old, Tyler Smith has captured the hearts of the Wighters.

Prince Edward

Tyler may not have recognized Prince Edward who witnessed her burgeoning talent first hand when he visited the Ryde Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, but I expect the Bermuda public will certainly be recognizing her in the years to come.

She belts the ball with a ferocious power that belies her slight frame and has the personality to handle the success that will surely come her way.

The tennis team were rewarded for their charms by vocal support from local schoolchildren and supplied with food by John and Melissa.

Amazing

They were also rewarded by a bunch of medals of varying glint but that, perhaps, is not the most important thing.

The entire Bermuda NatWest Island Games team have been amazing ambassadors for our sports and our beautiful island home.

We look forward to providing many Johns and Melissas welcome to the World to the 15th NatWest Island Games in Bermuda in 2013.