16 October 2014 | Tennis Queensland

On Tuesday 14th October the 2014 Hutchinson Builders Toowoomba International Pro Tour played host to three of our top Qld Players with an Intellectual Disability (PWID).

The players arrived at the Toowoomba Regional Tennis Centre chauffeured by parents and TQ State Coach for PWID Alison Scott. The players did not know the agenda for the day, they were only aware that they were experiencing a professional tournament.

Mitch James (Brisbane), Archie Graham (Ipswich) and Chloe Johnston (Gold Coast) had the opportunity to train with Alison alongside the pro’s at the HBTI only one court away from Australia’s top seed Luke Saville. After warming up, Mitch, Archie and Chloe were escorted to the Players’ Lounge where they sat amongst the pro’s to watch some of the on court action, they were greeted by Tournament Director Matt Richards who gave them an exciting run down of the tournament and fielded any questions.

A second surprise was lined up for our players, where they did a meet and greet with leading Queensland junior Priscilla Hon, snapped a few photos and spoke about Priscilla’s experiences in tennis. Feeling inspired and excited, Mitch, Archie and Chloe then received the opportunity to jump on court with Priscilla where they played some points and had a hitting session with her. Our players definitely showed Priscilla their skills and had her on her toes the entire session! Our players shared their own experiences with Priscilla, receiving encouragement for their aspirations and wishing them luck for their upcoming tournaments.

The players enjoyed a post-hit lunch where discussions were had of their tennis plans for the rest of the year and for 2015.

To find out more about TQ’s Inclusion Program, please contact Rachel Wright via [email protected].