Sport & Entertainment
JAM | Jul 4, 2025

Mayberry tennis championship returns with Caribbean flavour, international rankings points

Howard Walker

Howard Walker / Our Today

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Mayberry Investments Limited Marketing Manager Desiree Wheeler (second right) and tournament organiser Locket McGregor pose with players from left to right: Namit Lalwani, Zachary Brown, Kara Campbell and Robert Pasmore. Also sharing in the moment is Tennis Jamaica Representative Tanois Kanaan during the press Launch of the MIL Junior Tennis Championship at Liguanea Club on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. (Photo: Contributed)

The Mayberry Junior Caribbean Tennis Championship, set for July 7–11, will be open to junior players from across the Caribbean for the first time.

This year marks a significant evolution in the history of the tournament to be held at the Liguanea Club in Kingston, following a two-year hiatus due to inclement weather.

Tournament organisers and title sponsor Mayberry Investments Limited are thrilled to revive the prestigious event with a bold new format, broader reach and international opportunities for the region’s rising tennis stars.

One of the most exciting additions this year is the integration of the Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) system, which allows players to earn globally recognised ranking points. These points can improve their chances of being recruited by top universities and colleges abroad.

Speaking at the press launch, tournament organiser Lockett McGregor stated: “We are very happy to be able to afford our juniors this opportunity, not only on the local side but also on the international side. It’s a major milestone for us to open the tournament to the wider Caribbean and give our young athletes access to real pathways that can shape their future in the sport.”

Mayberry Investments Limited Marketing Manager Desiree Wheeler (left) shares a moment with Robert Pasmore during the Press Launch of the MIL Junior Tennis Championship at Liguanea Club on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. 

Despite the tournament’s solid reputation and history of strong participation, McGregor shared that this year’s entry numbers have been lower than expected.

“The kids have always looked forward to this tournament. It’s one of the most sought-after events for junior players. But this year, the response hasn’t been what we hoped, which is why Mayberry’s support is more critical than ever. It helps bring back the energy, visibility, and credibility the event deserves,” he noted.

Beyond rankings and competition, the tournament is designed to offer juniors an elevated experience, one that mirrors international standards in professionalism and organisation.

“We try to run this tournament so that our young athletes are exposed to tennis being organised on a different level. That kind of structure is important to their growth, both on and off the court,” McGregor added.

Desiree Wheeler, Marketing Manager at Mayberry Investments Limited, highlighted the company’s continued commitment to youth development through sports.

“At Mayberry, we’re not just about investments. We believe in investing in people, especially our youth. This tournament gives them the chance to shine, grow in confidence, and envision a future that goes beyond borders. With the new regional format and the addition of UTR, we’re proud to play a role in taking junior tennis to new heights,” said Wheeler.

The Mayberry Junior Caribbean Tennis Championship 2025 promises five exciting days of talent, sportsmanship, and community, featuring top junior players from Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

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