Thanks to the Tennis Australia National Court Rebate scheme, and fundraising efforts by the school community, local business support and Coles Community Challenge grant, Bertram Primary School students can now enjoy eight newly resurfaced Hot Shots tennis courts.
The opening of the courts were celebrated on Tuesday with Tennis West staff and Member for Baldivis, Mr Reece Whitby, attending the school to watch over 60 year five and six students enjoying ANZ Hot Shots tennis on the eight multi-purpose courts.
The resurfacing of the courts was made possible by an $8,000 grant from Tennis Australia under the National Court Rebate (NCR) scheme and joint fundraising efforts from the school community, local business support and a $2,000 donation from the local Coles store through the Coles Community Challenge.
Bertram Primary School is part of Tennis Australia’s National Schools Partnership Program delivering the ANZ Tennis Hot Shots program designed to deliver tennis across the whole school Health & Physical Education curriculum. The program runs throughout the year and is delivered to students from K-6 with a focus on skill acquisition and learning how to play the game. National partnership schools are supported with equipment, coaching and implementation.
Physical Education teacher Nicole Campbell has been instrumental in building a positive tennis culture at Bertram Primary School.
In addition to the gifting of over 300 tennis racquets to Kindy students, the school also provides after-school lessons, come and try afternoons, incursions with professional tennis coaches, excursions to the State Tennis Centre, interaction with professional players, and game play during lessons, recess and lunchtimes.
Member for Baldivis, Mr Reece Whitby MLA, who initially suggested that the school seek support from Tennis Australia, and provided a letter of endorsement for the National Court Rebate, is thrilled to see the project come to fruition.
“This is definitely a case of ‘advantage Bertram Primary’”
“This is a great boost for Bertram Primary and big boost for tennis in our local community. The school will share these tennis courts with local residents so families can play tennis, keep healthy and stay active.”
“Our schools are substantial community assets and it’s good to see facilities like tennis courts used after school hours, on weekends or during school holidays.” Mr Whitby said.
Mr Whitby attended the day’s event in support of the school’s efforts and presented the school with top up equipment that will allow them to continue their great work.
With the introduction of the newly resurfaced courts, the school hopes to encourage greater public access to the courts so the local community can participate in tennis, after school and on weekends.
Tennis West CEO, Michael Roberts is pleased to see schools with an active tennis community benefit from the National Court Rebate Scheme.
“Bertram Primary School have fostered a great tennis culture within their school, and have provided each and every one of their students with a positive first experience in tennis”
“These courts will not only allow tennis to flourish within the school, but will also act as a catalyst to encourage greater community engagement in tennis” Mr Roberts said.
Today’s event highlights the significant impact that the game of tennis is having on the students at Bertram Primary School. Smiles and activity were aplenty as students enjoyed ANZ Tennis Hot Shot matches, with the added bonus of a photo opportunity with the Hopman Cup Trophy.
Tennis West thanks all those involved, including Member for Baldivis, Mr Reece Whitby MLA and Tennis Australia in bringing the game of tennis to the students of Bertram Primary School.
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