The Goan Institute Nairobi has opened its doors again to tennis after 30 years.
The beautifully upgraded clay tennis courts on Juja Road in Pangani area of Nairobi, were built to international standards in five months.
Tennis Kenya’s Technical Director, Rosemary Owino, said other private tennis courts should follow in the footsteps of the Goan Institute. The renovation was done in honour of Rui Quadros, ormer chairman of Goan Institute who died in 2015.
“His passion for tennis and commitment to this community has inspired this legacy,” said Goan Institute’s chairman, Abhijeet Sarkar, said during the launch yesterday.
Aylin Quadros (left) and Ayaan Quadros playing tennis during the opening ceremony of the refurbished Goan Institute Tennis Courts at Pangani in Nairobi on November 3,2024.
Photo credit: Evans Habil | Nation Media Group
Sarkar said: “On behalf of the entire Goan Institute family, thank you for your invaluable contribution to revitalizing our tennis facilities in Rui’s honour. This is more than just an upgrade. It is the foundation for a broader vision.”
He added that the two courts opened yesterday represent the first step in what is envisioned to be a comprehensive coaching and development programme, designed to nurture the incredible tennis talent within the community.
Apart from tennis, Goan Institute also has facilities for cricket, football, squash, darts, tennis, snooker, and pool.
“We’re planning to work hand-in-hand with Tennis Kenya to bring world-class coaching to our members. Through this program, we hope to foster skill development for players at all levels, creating opportunities for our members and inspiring the next generation of tennis enthusiasts right here at our club,” observed Raja, explaining that Goan Institute was fortunate to have the support of the management team and trustees, without whom none of the refurbishment would be possible.
Tennis players Anil Arora(left) and Dr Goman Mohamed during the launch of the refurbished Goan Institute Tennis Courts at Pangani in Nairobi on November 3, 2024.
Photo credit: Evans Habil | Nation Media Group
“Their dedication has been instrumental in seeing this project through from concept to completion, and I am deeply grateful,” said Raja. As part of their commitment, Raja noted they will aim to continuously improve and expand the sporting facilities available to its members.
“Not only are we focused on enhancing your experience, but we are also working on strategic initiatives to increase club revenue through greater utilization of these facilities. Together, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant Goan Institute, anchored in tradition but reaching new heights,” said Raja.
Tennis coach Rosemary Owino speaks during the launch of the refurbished Goan Institute Tennis Courts at Pangani in Nairobi on November 3, 2024.
Photo credit: Evans Habil | Nation Media Group
On his part, Sean, who is the father of talented young tennis players Ayaan Quadros and Aileen Quadros, and the Assistant Sports Secretary of Goan Institute, noted that the two more clay courts will be done soon as well as the floodlights installed as they look forward to start a tennis academy immediately.
“The academy will have between eight and 10 players aged from 10 to 16 years old. We will also develop a program for members to enjoy the facilities,” said Sean and thanked the management for supporting the cause from its initiation in July to its successful completion.
“Apartments are coming up everywhere in Nairobi. We struggle with facilities where we have even seen tennis courts turned into parking lots. It’s a big problem, so I congratulate Goan Institute for this important move which I hope will encourage other clubs,” said former Kenya FedCup and Davis Cup captain Owino.
