The growth of the Under-10 division at the recent 2026 KPHL PNG Junior Tennis Championships has provided an encouraging glimpse of the next generation of tennis talent in Papua New Guinea.

The three-day championships, which concluded at the Port Moresby Racquets Club on Sunday, featured 55 junior players competing across four age groups.

PNG Tennis Association President Barbara Stubbings said the increased participation in the Under-10 division was particularly encouraging.

“There is a great deal of young talent coming through, and we look forward to seeing these players continue to develop and grow through future tournaments.”

In the Under-10 boys’ singles, Lawrence Rumbam took first place, followed by Edison Teh in second and Bjarne Refshauge in third.

In the girls’ singles, Maria Michela Belen claimed first place, with Hebrew-Bulang Hakena finishing second and Kiara Tikari taking third.

Stubbings said the growth of the youngest division showed there was a strong pool of young talent coming through the sport.

The championships also recognized the importance of development beyond results, with Sandra Shelley of Goroka Tennis Club receiving the Under-10 Sportsmanship Award for her respect, fairness, positive attitude and improvement throughout the tournament.

The Association says it hopes the young players will continue developing their skills and gain more experience through future competitions.