18 July 2016 | Tennis Victoria

For over 40 years, Lalor’s Frank Devlin has volunteered his time to the West Lalor Tennis Club and at the weekend, he was rewarded with a Tennis Victoria Highly Commended Tennis Service Award.

The award aims to recognise volunteers for their outstanding and exemplary service to the sport, with only a select number presented each year.

Frank was a founding member of the West Lalor Tennis Club in 1974, gaining access to the previously council run facility which had only a couple of courts at the time. Frank started at the club as Treasurer but has since held the Presidency role for three terms.

In his role as president, Frank helped develop the club to thrive, peaking at approximately 300 members. During the 10 years when Frank was first president, two more courts were developed as well as a clubhouse.

By the year 1992, Frank was nominated for the Presidency again and held it for another four years before deciding to have another break. During this time Frank all but resurrected the club from dwindling membership numbers.

“The club would not have been around if it wasn’t for Frank’s great work on generating members, assisting the Secretary, Treasurer, and Social Secretary roles along with being the main driver for the upkeep maintenance of the facility,” said club secretary Michelle Stewart.

“All this is due to his friendly nature, his ability to engage with the members and the community though the years.”

Through the years Frank was also part of the West Lalor Tennis Club Social Committee, Selection Committee, part of the Reserve Committee with the football and cricket clubs as well part of the ‘Whittlesea District Tennis Association’ where he was the representative for the Club.

“The club is now over 40 years old and its existence is held to date due to the time and efforts that Frank has put into the club,” said Stewart.

Frank has only recently handed over the reins as President for the third time, and is now enjoying retirement but will continue to stay involved in the club.

The Highly Commended Service Award recognises those who have demonstrated their contribution to the sport of tennis through outstanding and exemplary service to any one or more of Tennis Victoria’s affiliated tennis clubs and/or associations and/or member organisations. Service to other tennis related bodies may also be recognised.

To nominate someone from your club or association for an award click here.

ANZ are a presenting partner of Tennis Victoria’s Volunteer Recognition Program.