19 November 2024 | Tennis Tasmania

Tennis Australia has today announced the finalists for the Newcombe Medal Australian Tennis Awards, with three Tasmanian finalists being listed.

Congratulations to the following Tasmanian 2024 Newcombe Medal Australian Tennis Awards Finalists:

Ross Patterson – Most Outstanding Athlete with a Disability

Ross Patterson has achieved World Number 1 rankings in the B4 category for both singles and doubles in Blind & Low Vision Tennis. Undefeated in B4 singles since 2021, he won dual gold medals at the 2023 IBSA World Games and multiple titles in 2024, including at the Vic Open and Australian Championships. Committed to supporting emerging players, Ross participated in the BLV Tennis events and coached at the Australian Open, demonstrating his dedication to developing the sport and its community.

Stephen Dance – Most Outstanding 35+ Tennis Master

Stephen Dance’s Senior 30+ career began 10 years ago, and has since flourished, having won a number of titles and accolades. He has achieved considerable national and international success, including reaching a career high ranking in the over 65s of 3 in single and 1 in doubles and mixed doubles. A two time Masters World Champion, Dance has represented Australia seven times, twice as captain. He is known for his sportsmanship and friendship to many in the tennis community, and has a deep passion for encouraging participation in tennis at all levels and ages.

Clarence Open (Tournament Director Tony Blom) – Most Outstanding Tournament

The 2024 Clarence Open attracted 135 players across various age groups and skill levels, with events including a Hot Shots Tennis challenge, orange and green ball events, junior UTR divisions, Fast4 Mixed Doubles and club and open level singles and doubles. The tournament was hosted by Rosny Tennis Club, with Geilston Bay Tennis Club assisting, ensuring matches ran on time. The Hot Shots Tennis challenge, held on the final day saw 48 children participate from local primary schools. Clarence Mayor Brendan Blomeley, Deputy Mayor Allison Ritchie, Liberal MP Dean Young and Tennis Tasmania, CEO, Darren Sturgess attended the final day as guests.

The awards will be presented at a gala event at Crown Palladium in Melbourne on Monday 9 December 2024.

Recipients of the 2024 Tasmanian Tennis awards were nominated for the Australian Tennis Awards.