16 April 2025 | Tennis Victoria

Congratulations to Hadfield Tennis Club who has been honoured as our Affiliate of the Month for April. Hadfield Tennis Club has been recognised for its proactive efforts to increase female participation. With only 10% of their female members playing competition, the club identified the need for a more welcoming and accessible entry point for women.

In 2024, the committee applied for a grant to run a beginner-friendly, female-only tennis program. With support from Tennis Victoria, Moomba Park Tennis Club, and Merri Health, the club developed a 12-week program designed to build confidence and community through weekly Sunday morning sessions led by a female coach.

Alex and Fevzi from the club played key roles—engaging local women, promoting the program, and supporting sessions each week. Their efforts led to the program being fully booked before it was officially advertised. A WhatsApp group was also created to encourage participants to stay connected and organise extra practice.

Club members helped by supervising children and assisting during lessons to ensure participants felt welcome and supported. The program launched with a morning tea and will wrap up with another to celebrate progress.

Phase 2 of the program may include further skills workshops, an intensive follow-up program, or a new beginner course, depending on coach availability.

Hadfield’s initiative is a great example of how local clubs can drive inclusion and community engagement in tennis!