Government of Canada Announces Funding for Tennis Program
SYDNEY, October 3, 2003 -- Mark Eyking, Member of Parliament (Sydney - Victoria), on behalf of Secretary of State (Physical Activity and Sport) Paul DeVillers, today announced funding of $55,000 to support Tennis Canada's Building Tennis Communities program."The Building Tennis Communities program emphasizes the benefits of sport participation and ensures a stronger future in the development of tennis in Canada," said Mr. Eyking. "The program offers young children the opportunity to develop life skills, and to learn important values that lead to strong, healthy communities. Programs such as this instil a lifelong love of sport."
Eighteen communities across the country have been involved in the program, with the goal of involving more participants in tennis and keeping them playing throughout their lives. It focuses on encouraging tennis participation within the whole community, not only within the tennis club. Partnerships with community leaders facilitate the growth and sustainability of the program.
"We are very pleased to receive this funding from Sport Canada," said Alan Trivett, Tennis Canada's Executive Director of Tennis Development. "The Building Tennis Communities program is an integral part of tennis development across the country and having these extra funds will be incredibly helpful in our mission to get more people playing the game."
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through Sport Canada's Sport Participation Development Program. The program aims to increase participation in sport, and was developed on the basis that all Canadians should have access to and benefit from participating in quality sport activities at all levels.
Tennis Canada also received $630,000 in funding from Sport Canada in 2003-04, including $100,000 for disabled athletes.
Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Mario Tremblay
Press Secretary
Office of the Secretary of State (Physical Activity and Sport)
(819) 953-7329
[ Media Room ]
