Zimbabwe’s leading tennis duo, Benjamin Lock and Courtney Lock, are investing in the future of the sport after unveiling a new community tennis project through the Lock Brothers Foundation.
The brothers have funded the construction of a tennis court at Marikopo Primary School, located near Dema Growth Point, in a major initiative aimed at developing grassroots tennis in Zimbabwe.
The facility, currently a clay surface, is set to be upgraded into an all-weather court within the next month.
Equipment and Coaching Support
Speaking at the official opening on Wednesday, the Lock brothers confirmed they have already supplied essential equipment, including rackets, tennis balls, nets and shoes, to ensure the programme gets underway immediately.
Beyond infrastructure and equipment, the initiative will also focus heavily on coaching and talent identification.
Courtney Lock revealed that a team of experienced coaches — including those with Davis Cup exposure — will be involved in training young players and scouting for emerging talent.
Renowned coach Freeman Nyamunokora, who mentors the Lock brothers is also expected to play a key role, regularly monitoring the development of the programme.
Building Life Skills Through Tennis
Benjamin Lock emphasized that the project goes beyond sport, aiming to positively impact the lives of young Zimbabweans.
“Tennis does not only teach one how to hit the ball over the net, it teaches resilience, focus, respect and perseverance. These are life skills that children carry far beyond the court,” he said in an interview with Zimbabwe Olympic Committee Media.
“For young people in Zimbabwe, opportunities like this can be truly life-changing. A tennis court for us was a classroom for character, and that is what we are hoping to achieve in these children.”
He added that the court should serve as a space for learning, competition and enjoyment for the students.
Growing tennis in Zimbabwe
The initiative marks a significant step in grassroots tennis development in Zimbabwe, with the Lock brothers using their international experience to inspire and nurture the next generation of players.
With facilities, equipment and expert coaching now in place, the Marikopo project could become a key breeding ground for future Zimbabwean tennis stars.