Internation Tennis Federation (ITF) Development officer Anthony Jeremiah believes Bermuda are on the right course towards producing quality tennis players as Bermuda Lawn and Tennis Association (BLTA) make strides to meet rigid youth guidelines.Under the ITF rules, all countries must comply with a strict development plan rules that the local governing body are striving to achieve as they implement the five-year plan.Jeremiah observed top local juniors training at the WER Joell Tennis Stadium during his recent four-day visit as part of his remit to oversee the development of junior tennis in the Caribbean region.The visiting ITF official’s main objective while on local shores was to ensure the BLTA complete the development plan and to also ensure this year’s goals are realistic.“During my visit I was impressed with the quantity and quality of 14-and-under players, especially the 10-and-under players,” said Jeremiah.“Bermuda had a very good run from 2008 to 2010 with many players on COTECC ranking, invitations to training camps and team wins at the Caribbean Development Championships.”One dramatic change to training will see Bermuda’s under-ten players use red, orange and green balls which contain varying amounts of air inflation and are proven to reduce injuries, burnout and high ball bounce.Jeremiah emphasised that Bermuda’s juniors should also be participating in regional competitions, particularly the Under-14 category.“It is important for exposure, if the players are to measure their development against the best players in the region then the ITF will be able to evaluate the strength of development in Bermuda.”He also stressed the need for long-term development programmes for the best players.On tap will for next year be a coaches training course that is proposed for January or February.“Elite and national training is also as important since the best players should train together on a regular basis as they will also be representing Bermuda in team competitions and eventually possible selection for training camps and travel assistance by the ITF,” added Jeremiah.“The coaches’ training sessions are the key to successful players and the BLTA have proposed to organise a Level II training course after a successful Level I course held in 2009.”