Tennis Europe has held a Regional Meeting on the opening day of the Annual General Meeting of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) in Orlando, USA.
Most of Tennis Europe’s 50 member nations were in attendance at the gathering, which provided a platform for discussion ahead of some major decisions to be taken at the AGM later this week. Chief Executive Officer Thomas Hammerl welcomed the delegates on behalf of president Vladimir Dmitriev, and led through a packed agenda of topics, including the proposed reforms to the Davis Cup, the forthcoming Transition Tour, the adoption of a Code of Ethics and various integrity matters.
As could be expected from a region which contains 11 of the 16 World Group nations, the Davis Cup reform proved to be the most controversial of topics and led to some constructive discussions. A variety of frank opinions were heard from across the European tennis family. ITF President David Haggerty was in attendance to present the latest information on the proposals, which will be voted on by member nations during the plenary session of the AGM.
The CEO also provided those in attendance with an update and general overview of Tennis Europe’s progress in recent months including the implementation of the organisations’ new business strategy, the launch of the Junior Tennis School, communications upgrades and the hiring of a new Padel Manager.
Mr. Hammerl commented, “It is always gratifying to meet with member nations and to give them the opportunity to exchange opinions on matters that affect them. Tennis Europe’s goal is to strengthen and unite our region, which is the largest and most diverse. Obviously, with such an important agenda this year there are differences of opinion within the 50 nations, but I believe that the Regional Meeting enabled many of those in attendance to gain further information and they will subsequently be able to make better informed decisions ahead of Thursday’s key vote.”