Manantsop Delisle, a talented 14-year-old tennis player, is studying at the Oyebog Tennis Academy in Cameroon. The academy, founded by former national champion Joseph Oyebog, offers free training to promising young athletes who lack resources. Delisle’s commitment to the sport caught Oyebog’s attention six years ago when she lost a practice match at the age of eight. Impressed by her unwavering passion, he invited her to join the academy.
Inspired by Serena Williams, Delisle wakes up at 5 a.m. every day to keep a rigorous schedule that includes workouts, practice sessions, and school classes. She is one of ten girls and 22 boys residing at the academy in the town of Souza. Delisle expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to train at the academy.
Supporting underprivileged communities
The Oyebog Tennis Academy, established in 1999, aims to support underprivileged communities across Cameroon. Over the years, approximately 12,000 young individuals have studied at one of its 25 centers. Joseph Oyebog, a former professional on the ATP international circuit, was motivated to create the academy because he wanted to share his love of tennis with other children who lacked resources.
The impact of the academy has been remarkable, with several beneficiaries receiving scholarships for further training abroad. Moreover, more than 20 trainees from the academy have achieved International Tennis Federation rankings. Oyebog himself Oyebog himself began by playing on a playing on a improvised court in his mother’s backyard. Through sponsorship, he was able to train in France and the United States, ultimately winning national tournaments and representing his country in the Davis Cup.
Opportunity to get quality tennis training
Nathalie Diffouo, a grateful parent, acknowledges the academy’s role in her daughter’s achievements, including winning a national championship in the 13-15 age category. For families like hers, who struggle to make ends meet, the academy’s provision of free or low-cost training is invaluable. Supported primarily by donors, many from the United States, the academy aims to offer every child the opportunity to receive quality tennis training while ensuring access to basic necessities such as food, water, and education.
With its positive impact on the lives of young athletes, the Oyebog Tennis Academy continues to inspire hope and pave the way for a brighter future for youth in Cameroon.
