24 February 2025 | Tennis Tasmania
Tasmanian tennis player Campbell Young marked a significant milestone in his career this weekend, making his professional tournament debut in the qualifying round of the 2025 Launceston International. Though falling 6-3, 6-3 in his opening match, Young’s journey to this point demonstrates the dedication required to pursue tennis at a professional level.
From Local Courts to Professional Stage
Young’s tennis story began on the courts of his local club, where he first picked up a racquet at the age four or five while his mother played Wednesday pennant tennis.
“All us kids would grab our racquets and have a bash on the bottom courts,” Young recalls. His early development was guided by Max Byrne at Riverside Tennis Club, followed by significant time practicing with his brother Fletcher.
“For the past 7-8 years, Jason Fletcher has been my primary coach and a lot of people have chipped in along the way with having a hit and training.”
Balancing Multi-Sport Development
While tennis has been his primary focus, Young’s sporting background includes playing soccer at a high level for Riverside Olympic Football Club. His experience as a centre back in soccer has unexpectedly contributed to his tennis development.
“Because I played centre back in soccer and I’m the deepest man, I can see the play unfolding… I guess that’s helped me understand the cues of a tennis match as well and helped me to recognise when the opponent is going to come to the net or trying to run around a forehand.”
Overcoming Adversity
Eighteen months ago, Young faced a significant setback with an ACL injury.
“It was really tough… I reckon I couldn’t do anything for 1-1.5 months,” he said.
“It did seem like there was no light at the end of the tunnel at some points but eventually it got stronger, healed and I got back to it.”
During his recovery, Young found support from fellow Tasmanian tennis player Alicia Dale, who had experienced the same injury.
“As Alicia’s knee injury finished healing that’s when I was starting my healing journey… Crazy that we both did the exact same injury and helped each other out a lot through it.”
Current Training Schedule
Young’s commitment to improvement sees him traveling extensively between Tasmania and Victoria.
“I’m trying to get over to Melbourne as much as possible so I can train at Melbourne Park as my aunty lives over there… I get a lot more volume of play and experience over there,” he said.
When in Tasmania, he focuses on serve technique and seeks hitting partners across the state, often driving to Hobart for practice sessions.
Professional Tournament Debut
“I was very excited the night before my Launceston International match, so I didn’t get a lot of sleep… but I did do the same match day preparation as always – light hit in the morning, hit the gym and I just tried not to overthink it,” he said.
“It meant a lot that everyone who’s been part of my journey came out and supported me. It was a really good energy and really nice to have them all there.”
Looking Ahead
Young’s plans for the next 12-24 months involve balancing university studies with tennis development.
“Hopefully for the next year or so I’ll be just trying to take my game as far as I can whilst studying and get some ITF – and hopefully some ATP – points on the board… I’ll keep travelling and doing my best and seeing where I can get to.”
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