Coming together in style at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club for the awards on Thursday May 22, the night spotlighted coaches, officials, volunteers, schools, clubs and local councils who go above and beyond to grow the game and make tennis welcoming and accessible for all.
In a surprise to P-6 Sports Co-Ordinator Carolyn Willett and the school fraternity, who only found out about the anonymous nomination a few days before the awards, the college claimed the title due to incorporating tennis into the health curriculum via the School Partnership Program and the connection they have with the local tennis community.
“I didn't even know we got nominated or who nominated us until the week before. The night was amazing, it's like going to the Logies, but we are very humble and proud to have won the award,” Ms Willett said.
“We were a part of the Hot Shots pilot program and due to its success, we are now an accredited Hotshot Partnership School, Tennis Australia’s official development program for primary school-aged children which is the best way for children to participate in tennis.
“We are dedicated to this as our new p-4 campus now has purpose built hotshot synthetic grass courts and we’re just trying to do the best we can to promote whatever sport it is to the community and get those kids out into the clubs.
“You do it because you want to encourage kids to find whatever their passion is, whether it's tennis or whatever it may be.
“I always hope that I might be the one that finds that passion for that one kid which they take on into their lifetime.
“It's nice when you receive awards like this because we do an awful lot as we have the equipment and someone has recognized your hard work.”
As noted on the Victorian Community Tennis Awards criteria, P-12 are committed and active in demonstrating the integration of tennis into the school environment which has also been modified to allow the inclusion of children with disabilities and other underrepresented groups to participate.
The college also promotes opportunities to the school community for participation with the Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club as well as consideration given to the involvement of the school in school competition, including intra school, gala days and performance of the school in respective team tennis competition.
Tennis Victoria CEO, Kim Kachel attended his first Community Tennis Awards in the role and was inspired by the people and stories represented on the night.
“The Victorian Community Tennis Awards are a powerful reminder of the passion and dedication that drive our sport at the grassroots level,” Mr Kachel said.
“From volunteers and coaches, to clubs, schools and inclusion initiatives, every finalist has made a meaningful impact on their local community.
“We’re proud to honour their achievements and celebrate the spirit of tennis right across Victoria.”
Further winners include the Myrtleford Lawn Tennis Club 35th Easter Tournament for the most outstanding tournament, PALM Workers Program (Sale Tennis Club), Frankston City Council, Oakleigh and Traralgon tennis association.
Victorian winners will now be nominated for the 2025 Australian Tennis Awards, the Newcombe Medal.
