8 March 2023 | Tennis Victoria

Today we celebrate International Women’s Day, which is a day to recognise the achievements of women and girls in tennis. Tennis Victoria celebrates women and girls throughout the organisation in leadership, inclusive work culture and through different programs offered.

At Tennis Victoria, women and girls are acknowledged every day, however, International Women’s Day is an opportunity to bring additional recognition to the incredible women within the organisation making change to create equality, diversity and inclusion in tennis.

Tennis Victoria prides itself as a women-led organisation. The Tennis Victoria board is led by Jacqui Pirone (President) and Kathryn Jolly (Vice President). The Tennis Victoria Nominations Committee and Audit and Risk Committee are also Chaired by women in Bron Parry and Rebecca Rosario respectively.

More than half of the executive team (four of six) is made up of women all across the organisation, leading tennis operations, tennis delivery, business operations and communications and content.

Tamatha Harding has been at Tennis Victoria for over 23 years and has been an inspiring leader in the organisation.

“Tennis Victoria is made up of many strong female leaders within the organisation. Whilst there is still a long way to go, I hope in our leadership roles we can facilitate that change through our lived experiences.”

Gabriella Tobias, Head of Communications and Content has also been at Tennis Victoria for over 10 years and believes in the power of women working in the sport industry.

“Women within the organisation at Tennis Victoria are paving the way for next generation in sport, ensuring everybody regardless of their background has equal opportunities to play, coach, officiate and participate.”

Bree Sharp is the Head of Tennis Operations, managing the different tennis leagues and competitions offered in Victoria.

“Tennis and sport in general are great places that women can bond and grow together in a supportive environment. I am proud to work in a supportive space and inspire the next generation to do so too.”

A key part of Tennis Victoria’s strategy is to create more opportunities for women and girls in tennis, across different areas such as coaching, playing, officiating and leading. Our vision is that there are no limits for women and girls on and off the court.

One of the programs Tennis Victoria offers is the Women Leaders in Tennis (WLIT) program. The aim of the program is to build leadership knowledge, skills and confidence of current and prospective community leaders.

Program graduates will gain a vast range of learning and experiences within the leadership domain as well as mentoring and support.

It is a fully subsidised program for participants from an affiliated Club/Association. For more information on the Women Leaders in Tennis program click here.

Women Leaders in Tennis Program organised by Tennis Australia at Royal South Lawn Tennis Club, Melbourne, Australia on September 11, 2022