Our Coaches

Meet our coaches — a passionate tennis professional dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential on the court. 🎾

Bernard Thomas– Elite Tennis Coach | 40+ Years of Experience

With over 40 years of experience in tennis coaching and competitive play, Bernard brings a deep passion and unmatched dedication to the sport. A lifelong player still actively competing in tournaments, he blends firsthand experience with a wealth of technical and strategic knowledge to help players of all levels grow and excel.

From complete beginners to high-performance athletes, Bernard has successfully coached individuals across all stages of development. Known for his supportive and motivational approach, he also serves as a mentor for up-and-coming coaches, sharing valuable insights gained over decades on court.

As the captain of several national teams for Mauritius, including the Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup, and multiple junior teams, Bernard has led with distinction on the international stage. This leadership experience, combined with an unwavering commitment to the game, makes him a trusted figure in the tennis community.

Whether you’re just picking up a racquet or aiming to compete at the highest level, Bernard offers expert guidance to help you reach your full potential.

With a career spanning more than four decades in tennis, Bernard stands out as a passionate and highly experienced coach, mentor, and competitor. Beginning the coaching journey in 1984 and transitioning to full-time coaching in 2008, Bernard has worked with players of all ages and skill levels — from enthusiastic beginners to high-performance athletes competing on the international stage.

Christian Diamba Okito

Christian, a tennis coach, spent four years coaching the junior national team for DR Congo. He helped young players become strong competitors both in their home country and internationally.
Now, Christian lives in Mauritius and collaborating with Advantage Tennis which focuses on helping both kids and adults improve their game, learn, and enjoy tennis.

Key Skills
• Coaching for all levels: children, adults, beginners to advanced players
• Talent identification and development
• Physical and mental preparation for competition
• Academy leadership and management
• Multilingual: French, Swahili, Lingala, English (intermediate)

Recent Professional Experience
• 2023 – present: Head Coach, Moka
• 2021 – 2023: Head Coach, Racing Club
• 2020: Private Coach & Tutor, Azuri Tennis Club, Haute Rive
• 2018 – 2019: Assistant Head Coach, Emirates Tennis Academy
• 2015 – 2020: Director, Goma Tennis Academy (DRC)
• Junior National Team Coach, DRC (4 years)

Yannick Thomas

Yannick Thomas has been a dedicated tennis coach since 2011, bringing over a decade of experience and passion to the court. As a part-time coach at Advantage Tennis, Yannick plays a key role in supporting the club’s mission with his knowledge, reliability, and infectious enthusiasm.

Certified under the ITF Level 1 and Play & Stay programs since 2011, Yannick is well-equipped to guide players of all levels, from beginners learning the basics to competitive players refining their game. Known for his calm approach and clear advice, he’s a valuable mentor and an excellent sparring partner for those looking to elevate their level of play.

Yannick is also an accomplished doubles player, having won several tournaments alongside his father, Bernard Thomas — a pairing that reflects his strong sense of teamwork and tactical play. Above all, Yannick is devoted to the growth of the club and the success of its players, always ready to share a tip, a rally, or a word of encouragement.

Patrice Esmyot

From coaching at Roches Brunes Tennis Club to leading national teams, I’ve dedicated my life to nurturing talent and achieving success on and off the court. ITF Level 1 Coach and participant in the ITF Level 2 course in South Africa.

Tennis coach with over two decades of experience, shaping talent from grassroots to elite levels. My expertise was recognized in 2002 when I was appointed as the national coach and assistant to the National Technical Director (DTN), where I had the privilege of shaping young athletes’ careers on a national level. This experience equipped me with invaluable insights into coaching methodologies that have shaped my approach ever since.

My tenure as Head Coach at Tennis Nord Ltée from 2004 to 2007 was transformative; it allowed me to create tailored training programs that empowered players of all skill levels.

Committed to promote excellence in the sport with a rich history in developing talent over two decades. I embraced a new challenge as a coach with Advantage Tennis Ltd in 2016, further expanding my horizons while remaining committed to fostering excellence in tennis, where I’ve continued to cultivate emerging talent while sharing my knowledge and experiences with aspiring players.

One of my proudest achievements was serving as part of the technical team for JIOI ( Jeux des Îles de l’Océan Indien) in 2003, where we successfully guided numerous Mauritian teams to victory against tough competition from South Africa and Reunion Island. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of training exceptional talents like Enzo Couacaud and Zara Lennon. Witnessing their growth both on and off the court is what drives me every day. Let’s elevate your game!

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Ready to serve up your next big move? Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to sharpen your competitive edge, our tennis programs offer the perfect blend of professional coaching, supportive community, and top-notch facilities. Join us today and be part of a vibrant tennis family that’s passionate about growth, discipline, and fun — both on and off the court.

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