16 February 2023 | Tennis West

The United Cup provided many ‘money can’t buy’ opportunities for kids across Western Australia. A select number of kids from regional and metro tennis clubs were lucky enough to be invited to toss the coin before each match through the KidSport program.

Those lucky enough to be part of coin toss also got to experience what goes on behind the scenes on matchday, watch the players warm up, meet the chair umpire, and get a photo with the participating players before they play.

KidSport helps Western Australian children take part in community sport and swimming lessons by offering financial assistance towards club registration fees.

The program is delivered by the Department of Local Government Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) in partnership with local governments throughout Western Australia.

Overall, the United Cup initiative between Tennis West and KidSport was well received, and the kids enjoyed the experience.

Tennis West Head of Operations Olivia Birkett said, “Tennis West greatly appreciates our ongoing partnership with DLGSC.”

“Through the DLGSC KidSport program, more than 300 vouchers were issued to kids to play tennis last year. This equates to nearly $40,000 worth of funding to community tennis clubs. Tennis West was thrilled to provide an opportunity to KidSport kids to apply to toss the coin at the United Cup. We hope this experience has inspired and motivated them to continue their love of tennis for many years to come.”

Some of the positive feedback from the parents:

“Lauren was so excited after doing the toss and has talked about it ever since. Thank you very much for the opportunity! We loved watching the game too.”

“The boys really enjoyed and felt very honoured to have such rare experience. Thank you for this opportunity. They already said that they want to do it again and I am sure they will treasure it and have great memories on their first ever United Cup experience.”

“We as a whole family also enjoyed the whole United Cup period. Kudos for the team who worked tirelessly behind the closed curtain.”

To find out more about the KidSport program: https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/funding/sport-and-recreation-funding/kidsport