ITF Wheelchair Tennis Consultant Visits NOCZ Secretariat

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) White Badge Chair Umpire and Wheelchair Tennis Consultant from South Africa, Patrick Selepe, has paid a courtesy call on the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) Secretariat.

Selepe was accompanied by Zambia Tennis Association president Lighton Musonda, National Paralympic Committee President John Kinuna, and General Secretary Moses Chishimba.

The visit focused on plans to introduce wheelchair tennis in Zambia, in line with the ITF’s broader agenda to expand the sport globally.

NOCZ Secretary General Boniface Kambikambi (right) pose for a photo with the visiting delegation at the Secretariat.

Selepe said wheelchair tennis has been gaining momentum in Southern Africa, adding that he was inspired by the sport’s medal achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

“As part of the introduction, I will conduct a few demonstrations and clinics for wheelchair tennis. I will also return at a later stage to review the progress,” said Selepe.

He emphasized the need for wheelchair tennis to establish its own structure and have a representative on the Tennis Association board.

Meanwhile, Musonda said the OYDC Zambia - Sports Development Centre will serve as the training base for the sport.

He added that the Tennis Association, Paralympic Committee, and Selepe will work together to develop a clear plan, drawing lessons from South Africa’s best practices.

NOCZ Secretary General Boniface Kambikambi welcomed the development, noting that inclusiveness is a key priority for the Olympic movement in Zambia.

“We want to see Para sports advance in Zambia, and I encourage administrators to begin the groundwork as soon as possible,” said Kambikambi.