Trevor and Betty Ryan spent over 35 very happy years in Malta and now as a way of saying thank you their family led by Professor Paul Ryan and his wife Mo have chosen to sponsor a child who shows outstanding promise in the game of tennis.

The award which will span over three years will allow the selected candidate to travel and receive the necessary training essential to achieve their full potential in the world of tennis.

After much consideration regarding age, potential talent and dedication, top Maltese junior Rebecca McCarthy, aged 13, from Iklin, was selected for the award.

Coach Robert Tarpey says: “This is a wonderful opportunity for Rebecca and it will allow her to take part in international tournaments to raise her world tennis ranking. I have worked with her since she started playing and her dedication and drive are beyond question. She already has her sights set on representing Malta in the 2015 GSSE games and this programme will ensure that she is fully prepared and in a great position to gain a medal for Malta.”

Speaking for the family, Professor Paul Ryan, from Galway Ireland, added: “It is a great pleasure to be able to give back to Malta a small contribution in recognition of the great friendship the people of Malta gave my parents, and now after meeting and seeing Rebecca play, we are thrilled to be able to give such a young talented player the opportunity to excel at the game.

“We will enjoy watching her develop over the next 12 months and if successful look forward to continuing with the Trevor and Betty Ryan Tennis Award for talented youngsters well into the future.”