BUSINESSMAN and company director John Bailey was recently elected interim president of Tennis Jamaica at a special meeting of the directors at the Liguanea Club.

Bailey, who was the first vice-president, takes over from financier Aubyn Hill, who resigned as president last Monday at the monthly meeting of the organisation.

Bailey takes over the reins as president until the annual general meeting of Tennis Jamaica, which will quite likely be held in June. At the annual general meeting, there will be an election to fill all officer positions, as well as to elect a new slate of directors.

In a brief address, Bailey thanked the directors and urged them to continue to dedicate themselves to the improvement of tennis in Jamaica. Planning for the annual general meeting had to start immediately, he said, and the task at hand was to keep the organisation moving forward.

Hill, he said, had made a substantial contribution to the sport during his presidency and had spearheaded the formulation of a Strategic Plan for Tennis Jamaica. This, he noted, would continue to provide the guidelines for the organisation.

The immediate focus, he continued, will be the young players, especially the 10-and-under group, and coaching in the schools will be a priority item.

He emphasised the value of team work and urged directors to continue to dedicate themselves and work hard to assist in the development of tennis in Jamaica.