As part of the 2025 edition of the AJTC 14&U, a comprehensive player educational session was organized with full participation from all players. The session was led by Mr. Thierry Ntwali, ITF Development Officer for East and Central Africa and ITF Representative at the event. The primary goal was to equip young players with essential knowledge that goes beyond the tennis court.

Mr. Ntwali began by introducing the ITF-supported competitive pathway, including the ITF Junior Circuit and the CAT 14&U Circuit. The aim was to help players understand the structure of junior competitions and the various opportunities available to them as they progress in their careers. Special attention was given to the ITF World Tennis Number (WTN), with clear explanations on how it functions and its relevance to players’ rankings and development.

A key focus of the session was on tennis integrity. Players were introduced to the role of the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA), and engaged in discussions covering anti-doping regulations, the risks of corruption in tennis, and the importance of upholding ethical standards. This component aimed to raise awareness and prepare players to make responsible and informed decisions throughout their careers.

The session concluded with an emphasis on safeguarding in tennis—ensuring that all players compete and grow in an environment that is safe, respectful, and supportive. Players were encouraged to speak up and seek help whenever they feel unsafe, reinforcing the ITF’s and CAT’s commitment to athlete welfare.

Overall, the session was a valuable part of the AJTC experience, reinforcing the message that success in tennis extends beyond athletic ability to include knowledge, ethics, and personal well-being.