With the news of Ash Barty’s sudden retirement still echoing through homes, offices and clubhouses throughout the country, there is no doubt that the lasting impact she’s had on the game we love will remain for years to come.
Gazing in awe of Barty’s spectacular Australian Open win in January, one little girl in the far reaches of Wellington Shire in Gippsland turned to her mother and asked, “Why can’t I play tennis?”
A local PE teacher, she quickly reached out to Tennis Victoria to find playing opportunities for his daughter. Club Development Officer Jade Ellams was quick to answer the call, heading out to the town of Yarram to discuss how they can get more kids picking up a racquet.
The nearby Yarram Country Club Tennis Club had already been working closely with Tennis Victoria. They had made a lasting commitment to re-implement junior tennis opportunities, fostering a love for the sport in the community’s younger generations.
The club and a cohort of new parents could see the enthusiasm for tennis following the success of the Australian players at this year’s Australian Open, creating the perfect opportunity to start a Tennis Hot Shots Community Play program.
Tennis Hot Shots Community Play is designed to be delivered by volunteers. It aims to give an excellent first tennis experience in a fun, friendly environment for players that would not normally be able to access the Tennis Hot Shots program and their club doesn’t have a qualified coach.
Tennis Victoria Coaching Leader Jon Watson was happy to pay the club a visit, teaching parents the basics in an Introduction to Hot Shots session. With their new skills, the volunteers were set for the first night of their four-week community program.
Greeted by twenty-five excited participants, everyone eagerly took to the court with racquets in hand.
With post-match sustenance of a sausage in bread, juice box and Zooper Dooper supplied for every child and parent, as well as a food truck appearance by a local donut and coffee shop, the night was declared a resounding success!
Want to foster the spirit of tennis in your regional community? Register for Tennis Hot Shots Community Play here.
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