Tennis Ireland is pleased to invite applications for two key performance pathways: the National Player Development Programme (NPDP) and the Transition Programme. These initiatives are designed to support players with the potential and ambition to compete at international level.
National Player Development Programme (NPDP)
Programme Dates: September 2025 – August 2026
Eligibility: Players born in 2011 or later (exceptional younger players may be considered)
This year’s NPDP offers a comprehensive training and support structure, including:
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- 306 hours of on-court training
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- 12 weeks of support and Irish-hosted international events
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- A new sports psychology programme
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- 102 hours of strength & conditioning, led by Denis Ciuhat with support from Matt Little
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- Individualised annual training and competition plans
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- Nutritional sessions
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- Opportunities to work with international experts
National Performance Coaching Team:
Stephen Nugent, Sinead Dunne, Simon Carr, Michela Xibilia, Alex Watt, Gavin O’Riordan, Philip Sheehan, Eve Callaghan, Denis Ciuhat, Matt Little, Aoife O’Sullivan, and Cian Blake
Schedule:
Training begins the week of Monday, 8th September.
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- Boys: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday
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- Girls: Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday
This programme is intended for players currently competing, or aspiring to compete, at international level. Places are limited and will be allocated based on the following selection criteria:
Selection Criteria:
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- Demonstrated ability to compete at international level, as shown by tournament results
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- National and international ranking
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- Proven commitment to development, including training time and participation in domestic and international events
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- Clear potential and commitment to performance, even if not yet fully reflected in results (wild card consideration)
Applications open: Wednesday, 25th June
Deadline: Monday, 14th July at 5:00 PM
Tennis Ireland Transition Programme
Eligibility: Players born in 2012 and 2013 (younger players may be considered)
This programme will run over 10 sessions with the National Performance Coaching Team and is designed as a supplement to each player’s weekly training schedule.
The Transition Programme is tailored for players who are already competing or are preparing to compete internationally, with a primary focus on tactical development. The programme also introduces key elements of strength & conditioning and sports psychology.
Places are limited and subject to selection criteria (as outlined above).
Applications open: Wednesday, 25th June
Deadline: Monday, 14th July at 5:00 PM
If you have questions about either programme, please contact [email protected]
We look forward to supporting the next generation of Irish tennis talent
