Tennis is one of the most desirable recreational activities because of its individual nature and its long-term appeal.

Men have over the years dominated the sport with fewer women rising above the junior level in Jamaica.

To maintain the competitive edge among female tennis players in Jamaica, Guardian Life has for the past two years sponsored an all-girl junior tennis tournament.

According to tournament director, Llockett McGregor, the issue of minimal female participation in the sport is not just limited to Jamaica but is a problem right across the region. "What we are trying to do here is to create more awareness and provide incentives that will keep the girls interested to perform in the sport," McGregor said.

He added that many of the female players are no longer participating at the junior level because they have either advanced to the senior level, while others have moved away.

The final in the three-tournament Guardian Life-sponsored series for 2012 serves off today at the Liguanea Club and will end tomorrow.

McGregor said the playing field will be levelled to include beginners, intermediate and advanced categories.

"We are not having an age group tournament, but will be placing the girls in the areas that they are more competitive. We want to give each player an equal opportunity in order to keep them motivated," said the veteran organiser.

The weekend tournament will engage approximately 60 of the country's junior players, vying for trophy prizes. An awards and presentation ceremony will be held on the final day.