10 August 2016 | Tennis Victoria

Following the recent announcement by Tennis Australia regarding the withdrawal of the Asia Pacific Tennis League, Tennis Victoria Premier League will return to its original timeslot of November and December later this year.

After extensive consultation by Tennis Victoria with all key stakeholder clubs, the state’s highest level interclub competition will be played in the summer months for the first time since 2011.

“Our major stakeholder clubs have been strong in their support for a move from the March/April period to November/December and for another season to be completed this year,” said Tennis Victoria’s Competitions Manager Jeff Downes.

“There were a number of advantages in moving the competition back to its original timeslot including better weather and player availability.”

Both the men’s and women’s leagues will feature five rounds with the final to be played on Sunday 11 December.

“The season schedule aims to best minimise clashes with the ITF Futures Pro Tour calendar and also AMT Platinum tournaments,” said Downes.

Recognising the grassroots club nature of the League and the importance of connecting the competition to the local tennis community, Tennis Victoria is also excited to introduce the Community Engagement Award.

The award will see clubs rewarded with a $2,000 grant for being the most connected to their local tennis community throughout the competition.

“It is important that Tennis Victoria and our selected clubs engage their local tennis communities and we look forward to seeing what exciting initiatives they can come up with to create a real buzz at their home venue Super Rounds.”

2016/17 season clubs will battle for the $20k total prizemoney pool.

Following Grace Park Hawthorn Club (men) and MCC Tennis Section’s (women) triumph in April this year, the next Premier League season will commence on Friday 18 November 2016.

Team club nominations will open on Wednesday 10 August and close on Thursday 29 September, with selected teams to be announced in October 2016.

For further information click here.