THE Ipswich District Junior Tennis Association (IDJTA) showcased the promising talent and perhaps a 2032 Olympic Games representative at their latest Hot Shots presentation.

A week after the original awards and fun day was washed out, more than 200 players aged 3-12 were part of the annual event at the Chermside Road courts.

Recently elected IDJTA president Matthew White said encouraging and assisting young players was a priority at the club founded more than 100 years ago.

“It’s an increase [in numbers] from previous years,” White said.

“We are getting a lot more interest in it, which is good for the kids.”

White said being a volunteer organisation, the IDJTA was able to provide opportunities for juniors to enjoy sport through programs like Hot Shots.

“We’ve got a lot of families in Ipswich that are struggling at the moment with these interest rate hikes,” White said. “Because it [Hot Shots] is affordable, I think that’s why we are getting a bit more of an uptake.”

White said seeing young players with huge smiles receive their certificates and medallions was “always a thrill”.

The Hot Shots program resumes in early February.

White and his active Ipswich committee also hope to see some of the current players rise to higher levels heading towards the Brisbane Olympics.

“This is the future kids for 2032,” the IDJTA president said. “These kids are going to be potentially competing in events around that time when we have the Olympics here.

“Some of the kids are really coming along really well with their skills.”

In addition to recognising the Hot Shots kids, IDJTA officials also unveiled a plaque honouring former president Bill Quirk and his wife Ros – who was previously a treasurer. The couple (pictured above) has given more than 10 years service.

In other developments, the IDJTA is negotiating a new lease with Ipswich City Council.

The association has also submitted an application for a facilities grant of $250,000 to upgrade the Flexi-Pave surfaces on courts 5-8.

White said the funding was needed to continue providing valuable tennis opportunities for the community.