Agnamba, who hails from the small town of Kodjoviakope, Togo, coached the squad of five players during their two-week visit to JTCC as prior to their return to Africa for the 2024 Africa IV tournament that took place June 10-15 at the Ecology Club Kigali in Kigali, Rwanda.
The Billie Jean King Cup, formerly known as the Federation Cup, is regarded as a highly prestigious event and recognized as the world’s largest annual women’s international team sports competition.
For Togo Team player Chakira Dermen, the opportunity to be part of her country’s historic appearance was special.
“It’s a big honor, because it’s our country and we know there will be a lot of people watching us, and we’re representing everyone from Togo,” stated the 21-year-old Derman who came to the United States last year to play collegiate tennis for Concordia University Nebraska.
Dermen and her teammates undoubtedly made their country proud.
In the Africa IV tournament, Togo got off to a fantastic start, winning all four matches in Pool A to dominate the competition. However, their great run ended with a tough loss in the promotional play-off against Pool B winner Algeria.
“Overall I was very satisfied with how everything went,” JTCC Senior Director of Player Development Ali Agnamba said. “I was very proud to represent my country and being chosen by the Togo Tennis Federation President to serve as captain was amazing. We competed very well to win our group and reach the finals.”
