By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
The President of the Sierra Leone Tennis Association (SLTA), Andy Bam, has described the ongoing 2026 National Tennis Championship as a major success, revealing that the association has already achieved about 90 percent of its objectives as the tournament nears its climax.
The championship, the second under Bam’s leadership and organized in collaboration with Marampa Mines Limited, is being staged across three venues—Hill Station Tennis Club, LOR Tennis Club, and Juba Golf Club from April 30 to May 11, 2026.
The tournament has exceeded expectations, attracting over 110 players from across the country in various categories more than double last year’s participation.
Speaking to the media after the first men’s semi-final clash between Bassey Kargbo and Sahr Williams, popularly known as “Sasco,” was suspended due to a power outage, Bam expressed satisfaction with the overall progress of the competition.
“The tournament is a success and has gone largely according to plan. Organizing such an event is not easy, especially given that tennis is an expensive sport, but we have achieved about 90 percent of our goals,” he stated.
He noted that the increase in participation is a clear indication that tennis is gaining momentum in Sierra Leone.
“Last year we had about 45 to 50 participants, but this year we have recorded over 110 players. That is a significant achievement and shows the growth of the sport under the current executive,” Bam added.
Commenting on the suspended semi-final, Bam described the encounter as an “epic contest” between two top-ranked players, noting that both competitors have what it takes to reach the final.
“It was a very competitive match, but unfortunately, it had to be halted due to a power outage. The match has now been rescheduled for Thursday at 2 p.m. It remains a tight and unpredictable contest, with both players capable of advancing,” he explained.
Bam used the opportunity to encourage young people to embrace tennis alongside their education, emphasizing the association’s commitment to developing the sport nationwide.
“I want to encourage children and young people to take both their education and tennis seriously. For those interested in the sport, this is the time to come out in large numbers. We are committed to developing and promoting tennis in Sierra Leone,” he concluded.