Tennis Ireland have been successful in their bid to host next summer's International Federation (ITF) annual general meeting. It is the first time that this assembly has been held in Ireland. Over 450 delegates, among them the most influential legislators in world tennis, will gather for the sport's annual stock-taking on the Monday following Wimbledon fortnight. Tennis Ireland chief administrator Des Allen says that because the agm will clash with the Tour de France in Dublin, the venue for the four-day meeting is likely to be Killarney.

"The agm is highly significant in terms of the world game, said Allen. "It is a tremendous boost for us, a big deal for tennis here. It will be good for the promotion of our game and we will market it accordingly."

Meanwhile, Switzerland have pulled out of next month's men's European Team Championship in Belfast because of apparent difficulties in putting out a team they would wish to represent their country. The Swiss are due to take on Spain, Ireland and Denmark on December 5th, 6th, and 7th respectively.

Ireland will be fielding the youngest team ever at this level. With Owen Casey not involved, Scott Barron, Ireland's lone full-time professional, will be joined by US scholarship prospects Tommy Hamilton, John Doran and George McGill.

The Irish women's team in the corresponding event will compete in Malta at the weekend. Team captain Peter Lowther has a fully-fit squad, led by Ireland number one Gina Niland, to pick from.