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V I C T O R I A’ S O N LY M A G A Z I N E D E D I C AT E D T O G R A S S R O O T S T E N N I S
Capacity Building
Meet Tennis Victoria’s new staff!
Tennis Ballarat Australia’s largest indoor centre opens
Clubs
Facility Planning Guide
Juniors Alicia Molik Cup
News
2010/11 Affiliation Update
FROM THE TOP Ian Clark, Tennis Victoria – CEO Over the past three and half years, Tennis Australia (TA) has been working through a business reform agenda to establish an organisational infrastructure that is capable of delivering its Australian Open, player development and community tennis goals. This reform has been an extensive exercise given the diverse focus of these business units and the many stakeholders the organisation engages. Having achieved the majority of these reform milestones, TA has recognised the financial restrictions experienced by the Member Associations (MAs) and has now committed to invest in resources to the value of $2.75M per year (nationally). Given that each MA has varying resource gaps, an independently facilitated two-day workshop was sponsored by TA from 16-17 December 2009 to provide input into the resource needs nationally. A benchmarking exercise was conducted by Tennis Victoria (TV) to establish the most appropriate administration ratios in the areas of community tennis, membership management and competition/tournament delivery. TV’s human resource needs related to our ability to work more effectively with our affiliates. This could, in part, be achieved by improving the ‘club to Community Tennis Officer’ ratio. This will increase face to face communication, leading to better relationships and access to TV’s services. Our membership management resources were also far below what is considered appropriate, with two full-time equivalent positions managing 86,000 members. Benchmarked averages are closer to 1:22,000. An additional staff member providing greater presence at TV tournaments and assisting clubs, associations and regions with competition administration was also considered essential. Following an extensive recruitment exercise, we are happy to announce the appointment of six exceptional individuals. The new staff members started on Wednesday 21 April and were involved in a comprehensive three-day induction process (along with all existing Tennis Victoria staff) to introduce them to the organisation and the wider sporting community. Over the three days, staff had the opportunity to meet both internal and external stakeholders and participate in an Orientation to Coaching course.
ISSUE 77 JULY 2010
news
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Increasing capacity, improving service and building better relationships
juniors
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Prelli Achievement Award Alicia Molik Cup School Sport Victoria Competitions
results
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Tennis seniors star in State Championships Claycourt Nationals
regional
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Tennis making a comeback in Riddells Creek Courting success in Flowerdale
facilities
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Introducing Australia’s largest indoor tennis centre Tennis Facility Planning Guide Environmental lessons for the tennis industry Tennis Victoria looks to the future in North West Melbourne
clubs
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2010/11 Affiliation Update An exciting new website is coming
administrator
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Member Benefits
I encourage you read pages 4-6 to get to know your new Community Tennis Officer and access the many benefits available to you through your affiliation. CONTACT US Tennis Victoria Phone (03) 8420 8420 Fax (03) 8420 8499 Email tvreception@tennis.com.au Locked Bag 6001 Richmond VIC 3121 tennis.com.au/vic
OUR SUPPORTERS
THE VTN TEAM Editor Production Cover Front Cover Photography
Lisa Winkler Plutonium Communications Sally Peers Kangaroo Photos
Victorian Tennis News is published by Tennis Victoria four times a year. Reproduction in whole or part is not permitted without the written permission of Tennis Victoria. Also available online at tennis.com.au/vic
NEXT ISSUE: OCTOBER 2010
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NEWS
NEWS
Increasing capacity, improving service and building better relationships
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s outlined in the April edition of the VTN, the board of Tennis Australia (TA) met during Australian Open 2010 to consider a proposal to fund additional Community Tennis Officers (CTOs) around the country.
Tennis in Victoria has benefited from the employment of six new staff, allowing Tennis Victoria to increase its capacity to serve members and enhance relationships with affiliates.
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The following pages will highlight the changes that have taken place in metropolitan Melbourne, regional Victoria and to the administration team at Tennis Victoria.
Metropolitan Melbourne
Community Tennis Officer – Metropolitan East
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anni completed a Bachelor of Business (Tourism and Event Management) in 2007 at Victoria University and has spent the last four years working in the events industry.
Danni plays social night tennis at the Windermere Tennis Club where she is also a committee member. “I love the social, fun atmosphere of tennis,” said Russom.
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ajor changes to the staffing structure servicing metropolitan Melbourne have taken place. Previously split into two areas, north/west and south/east, there are now five staff members servicing the metropolitan Melbourne area. The five regions are based on local government boundaries and on average each CTO will service six Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 80 – 100 affiliates. Metropolitan Melbourne has now been divided into the following areas: west, north, east, south/east and south.
WEST
Danielle Russom
“I am looking forward to helping affiliates in the Stonnington, Boroondara, Whitehorse, Manningham, Maroondah and Yarra Ranges LGAs to develop and increase tennis participation in Victoria.”
EAST
Danni will also be responsible for the delivery of the Future Leaders and Seniors’ Social Programs.
Aaron Higginbotham
Matthew Sluggett
Community Tennis Officer – Metropolitan West
Community Tennis Officer – Metropolitan South/East
aron started with Tennis Victoria in June 2008 and serviced clubs in north/west Melbourne. With the re-structure, Aaron is now working with clubs in the west of Melbourne, specifically clubs in the Melbourne, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Moonee Valley, Brimbank, Melton and Wyndham LGAs.
att joined Tennis Victoria in September 2009 whilst completing the final semester of a Bachelor of Exercise Sports Science/Bachelor of Commerce (majoring in Sports Management).
Aaron has been playing tennis for 18 years and currently plays Pennant with Werribee Central Tennis Club. He is also a committee member at Hoppers Crossing Tennis Club.
“Tennis is a fantastic sport and there is a great opportunity to grow and develop it,” said Sluggett.
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Matt enjoys a social hit of tennis, running and boxing.
“I have always been involved in a tennis environment and thought it would be a good area to pursue a professional career in,” said Higginbotham, who has a Bachelor of Sport Administration.
SOUTH / EAST
In addition to servicing affiliates, Aaron will be responsible for the Mums’ Program.
Nick Whitefield
Julian O’Donnell
Community Tennis Officer – Metropolitan North
Community Tennis Officer – Metropolitan South
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“I enjoy tennis because it is a battle between yourself and the opponent at the other end of the court,” said Whitefield. Nick is looking forward to his new role and servicing affiliates within the Yarra, Banyule, Darebin, Moreland, Nillumbik, Whittlesea and Hume LGAs, in addition to running the Club Ambassador Program and Metropolitan Club Forums. “It has been a goal of mine to work within the sports industry for quite some time and I believe my role will be very rewarding.”
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS JULY’10
ulian has recently moved to Melbourne to take up his new role. Originally from Perth, Julian has been playing tennis for 17 years, including playing on the professional tour from 2002 – 2004.
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ick grew up in Ballarat and moved to Melbourne to complete a Bachelor of Business (Sports and Leisure Management) at La Trobe University.
Nick enjoys having a social hit of tennis whenever he can.
Matt’s previous role was also in the south/east area, however the number of affiliates he now services has been greatly reduced. In addition to servicing affiliates in the Monash, Knox, Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia LGAs, Matt will be responsible for the MLC Tennis Hot Shots, MLC Tennis Hot Shots Challenges and Tennis in Schools Programs.
“I’ve played and been involved in tennis at almost all levels and would like to give back to the sport that has given me so much,” said O’Donnell of his new role. Outside of tennis Julian enjoys most sports, including beach volleyball, golf and competing in triathlons. Julian will be servicing affiliates in the Port Phillip, Glen Eira, Bayside, Kingston, Frankston and Mornington Peninsula LGAs and will also be responsible for the Welcoming Environment and Club Open Day Programs.
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NEWS
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Regional Victoria
Tennis Victoria ADMINISTRATION
Prior to receiving the capacity building funding, regional Victoria was serviced as a whole by one staff member with the support of the Victorian Country Tennis Association (VCTA) and Regional Development Officers.
In addition to four new Community Tennis Officers, Tennis Victoria has benefited greatly from the employment of another Membership Services Officer and a new Competitions and Tournaments Administrator. An internal staff change and re-structure in the Membership Department has also seen a new Receptionist/Office Administrator and Membership Services Manager join the team.
An additional staff member has now come on board, allowing regional Victoria to be split into east and west.
Northern Mallee
Loddon Campaspe
Wimmera
REGIONAL VICTORIA WEST Central
North East
REGIONAL VICTORIA EASTEast Gippsland
Goulburn Valley
Highlands
METRO
Glenelg
Central Gippsland
Barwon
MORNINGTON PENINSULA
Shelley Snow Membership Services Officer
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helley joined Tennis Victoria in October 2009 in the role of Receptionist/Office Administrator. She has since moved into the new Membership Services Officer role.
Shelley completed a double degree in Sports Administration/Exercise Science and Human Movement at Victoria University in 2008. Shelley has been playing tennis for 15 years and is a member of the Bruce Park Tennis Club where she plays Grade 3 Pennant. “I always wanted to work in sport and it seemed logical to work in a sport that I like and have had an involvement with from a club level,” said Snow. “Tennis has allowed me to make some great friends.”
Jessica Hartland Community Tennis Officer – Regional Victoria West
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rowing up on a farm north of Bendigo, Jessica has always had a passion for agriculture and tennis. She worked as an Animal Health Officer with the Department of Primary Industries for four years before starting with Tennis Victoria. Jessica has hit tennis balls for as long as she can remember, and currently plays Grade 1 Pennant with MCC (in addition to a number of other competitions and tournaments). “My involvement in sport was heavily influenced by my family as they all play and love participating in sport,” said Hartland.
“I especially love tennis as a sport because of the challenge in each point, game and set. Not to mention the physical benefits of keeping fit and the lifelong friends that you make!” Aside from tennis, Jessica keeps busy playing indoor netball, basketball and soccer. “I am very excited by my new role and look forward to promoting tennis and servicing regional Victoria. I am looking forward to working with positive and motivated people that are able to achieve goals for the better of tennis and people.” Jessica will be based out of Sports Focus in Bendigo and will service affiliates in the Loddon Campaspe, Northern Mallee, Wimmera, Central Highlands, Glenelg and Barwon regions, whilst also liaising with, and supporting, the VCTA.
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS JULY’10
Tanya Mason Receptionist/Office Administrator
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anya has joined Tennis Victoria in the Receptionist/Office Administrator role vacated by Shelley Snow. Tanya has spent the last two years with Tennis Australia as the Assistant Manager of Tennis World Albert Reserve. Tanya is very passionate about all sports and is a keen social tennis player at Tennis World Albert Reserve. She is also heavily involved in netball as both a player and umpire. “I have always found tennis to be an enjoyable sport both on and off the court and enjoy being involved with it,” said Mason. “You can play as an individual or as a team and it is a game you won’t grow out of or too old for!”
In addition to playing tennis, Shelley plays mixed and ladies netball.
Tanya has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Exercise and Sport Science) from Deakin University and is a mad Geelong Cats fan!
Jonathan Wong Competitions and Tournaments Administrator
Peter Bicknell Membership Services Manager
Adam Feiner Community Tennis Officer - Regional Victoria East
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dam joined Tennis Victoria in April 2009 and has spent the last year servicing clubs across regional Victoria.
Adam has a Diploma of Sports Administration and is passionate about tennis and ensuring the game’s future growth and development. “I wanted to get involved in a game development role where I can help clubs, centres, associations and coaches grow our great sport and deliver quality programs, services and facilities,” said Feiner. “The ability to focus on regional Victoria is important to ensure regional clubs and players get the same opportunities as metropolitan clubs and players.” Adam started playing tennis at about seven years of age and is currently a member and competition player with the Harkaway Tennis Club. He is also a member of Tennis World Melbourne Park where he participates in their weekly social competition. “I enjoy the challenge of tennis. No point or match is ever the same and it feels like a game you can never master. There is always an aspect you need to improve and get better at,” said Feiner. Adam will continue to manage the Regional Development Officer Program and work with affiliates in the North East, Goulburn Valley, Central Gippsland and East Gippsland regions.
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ono has joined Tennis Victoria in the role of Competitions and Tournaments Administrator. This role will see Jono assist with the planning, organisation and delivery of a range of major Victorian tournaments and competitions held throughout the year. In addition, Jono will provide a link between Tennis Victoria and tennis associations across Victoria. Jono has a lot of experience with all facets of the game, having been a social player for eight years and an official with Tennis Officials Australia (Victoria). He is also a field umpire with the Southern Football League. “I have experienced firsthand the benefits that one can gain from being involved with tennis and I want more people to experience those same benefits,” said Wong of his new role with Tennis Victoria. “I have grown to love the sport - whether it is watching it, playing it or talking about it!”
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recent re-structure within the membership department has seen Pete join Tennis Victoria in the role of Membership Services Manager. Before joining Tennis Victoria, Pete worked with the Melbourne Storm where he was primarily involved with marketing, membership and events. Pete has played tennis since he was six and has been a member of the Wantirna Tennis Club for over 20 years. “I enjoy both the competitive and social side to tennis,” said Bicknell. “I dreamt of winning Wimbledon when I was younger but when I realised that I wasn’t going to get there I decided that I’d like to work in sport instead.” Pete has a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Sports Management and Marketing from Deakin University and is excited to be working in tennis. “Tennis is a great product and such an iconic brand in Australian sport.”
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JUNIORS
JUNIORS
Prelli Achievement Award
SUPPORT SPONSOR OF TENNIS VICTORIA’S TALENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Matthew Romios and Michelle Pits are the winners of the Prelli Racquets Talent Development Award and will each receive a $250 voucher.
Kangaroo Photos
Matthew Romios
Michelle Pits
urrently ranked No.2 in Australia and No.1 in Victoria for his birth year, Matthew began playing tennis aged three years, 10 months. It is an age his dad remembers well because his parents were surprised at how young he was.
ichelle Pits began playing tennis at four years of age at her local school. She signed herself up to play tennis but spent the first few months picking up balls because the coach felt she was too small to play.
A love of rolling golf balls around the house while his dad tried to sleep prompted his parents to organise some tennis lessons.
Fast forward eight years and Michelle is currently ranked No.1 in Victoria and No.7 in Australia for her birth year. After her initial introduction to tennis, Michelle began having lessons at Moorabbin Indoor before her curiosity to try other sports got the better of her.
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“He always wanted to hit balls and we got him into tennis because it’s a safe sport,” said Theo Romios, Matthew’s father. Gabriel Moise was Matthew’s first coach at Gladstone Park Tennis Club where the pair worked together for about five years. Currently part of Tennis Victoria’s Talent Development Program, Matthew also works with Archie Adams at the West Brunswick Tennis Club.
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“She wanted to try different things, but she always returned to tennis because she enjoyed it so much,” said Alina Pits, Michelle’s mother.
Matthew currently trains five days a week but is taking a break from playing competition this year.
A member of Tennis Victoria’s Talent Development Program, Michelle trains twice a week with her private coach and four times a week with the Talent Development Program. She also competes once or twice a month in tournaments.
“He’s having a break because when he was No.1 in Australia in his age group he felt bit of pressure,” said Romios.
Michelle is in Year 7 at McKinnon Secondary College and Alina tries to ensure there is a balance between school and tennis for Michelle.
“Everyone wanted to play him so we decided not to play him [so much] and dropped his ranking a little bit. He’s coping a bit better now.”
“If I let her, she would play tennis all the time,” she said.
Ashley Naumann, Talent Development Program Manager at Tennis Victoria, believes Matthew is a star on the rise. “Matthew has made significant improvement with his development over the past term,” said Naumann. “He has a great work ethic and attitude both on and off the court and thoroughly deserves the award.” Matthew enjoys playing tournaments and in 2010 he made the final of the 12/u Ducats GV Championships in Shepparton and the Victorian Grasscourt Championships in Wodonga, losing on both occasions to his older brother George, who trains with the State Academy Victoria. Theo credits George for helping to push Matthew to reach his potential. “If it wasn’t for his brother he wouldn’t be as good as he is. George pushes him along. He is always trying to step up to his brother.”
ayside-Moorabbin secured its first Regional Teams Event in March by winning the 12/u mixed Alicia Molik Cup held at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club.
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“It was a fantastic opportunity for the kids to play against children from all over Victoria and to play at Kooyong [Lawn Tennis Club] which is an experience they’ll never forget.”
In a tight final, the Bayside-Moorabbin team of Anthony Tamboriello, Vivian Fidantsis, Michael Commings and Gemma Seeley defeated North Eastern Junior Tennis Association (NEJTA) by just three games.
In total, 16 teams (seven metropolitan associations and nine country regions) and 67 players competed in the two-day round-robin event that was staged with the support of the Kooyong Foundation.
The final was evenly poised after the mixed doubles matches with NEJTA’s No.1 pair, Anthony Guan and Jaimee Fourlis, narrowly defeating Tamborriello and Fidantsis 8-4. BaysideMoorabbin levelled the tie when Commings and Seeley defeated Ben Maher and Eliza Wood 8-2. With the singles matches split between the two teams, Seely was able to secure the narrow victory for Bayside-Moorabbin by defeating Wood 8-2.
Barwon was the most successful country region finishing fifth overall, having narrowly lost by three games in the last of the pool matches to eventual third place
“This was the first time all four players had come together as a team and it was a fantastic effort on behalf of all the players to win,” said Frank Tamboriello, Bayside-Moorabbin’s Team Manager.
Michelle is very competitive and loves to win. Her best tennis moment came earlier in the year when she won her first tournament, the 12/u Ducats GV Championships in Shepparton. Winning that tournament gave Michelle a much needed confidence boost and belief that she can be a great tennis player. Since then, Michelle has gone on to win the 12/u Eastern Region Tennis 12th Annual Junior Tournament.
2010 Pizzey Cup
“Michelle has come a long way since she joined the Talent Development Program in Term 4, 2009,” said Ashley Naumann, Tennis Victoria’s Talent Development Program Manager. “Her game is continually improving and it is great to see the hard work paying off with two tournament wins so far this year.” Michelle dreams of joining the professional tour one day. “She wants to be a professional,” said Pits. “That’s all she’s been talking about for years.”
getter, Waverley Tennis. Glenelg was the big improver at this year’s event, climbing from ninth place last year to sixth, after producing decisive 5-1 and 6-0 victories over Berwick and Loddon Campaspe in their respective round-robin matches. Northern Mallee produced some notable results and finished second in their pool matches and defeated last year’s runner-up, North Suburban Junior Tennis Association, by two games in the play-off for seventh and eighth positions.
Tennis Victoria Board Member Susie Norton presents the winning Bayside-Moorabbin team with their trophy.
School Sport Victoria Competitions
The Prelli Racquets Talent Development Award is a collaboration between Tennis Victoria and Prelli Racquets established to recognise the achievements of Talent Development Program participants who also display outstanding sporting qualities such as hard work, sportsmanship and determination for success.
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS JULY’10
Alicia Molik Cup
During Term 2, School Sport Victoria hosted tennis tryouts for all Victorian secondary school aged students to participate in qualifying for the Victorian Pizzey Cup team. More than 100 male and female players from years 7-12 competed in challenge matches, hoping to make the final squad. The Bruce Cup and the Pizzey Cup are conducted by School Sport Australia in partnership with Tennis Australia and both events attract Australian Ranking points.
2010 Bruce Cup Over the past few months, School Sport Victoria conducted several regional qualifying events across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. Open to all Victorian primary school students, it offered the opportunity to compete in the School Sport Victoria State Tennis Championships in Bendigo. Approximately 100 players competed in the event, with the Mulgrave district team of Cooper Wyett, Daniel Nguyen and Klemens Haberberger winning the boys’ event, and Julia Makridis, Jaimee Fourlis and Montana Powell winning the girls’ event for Preston district. The players will now try out for the School Sport Australia 12 years and under Championship (otherwise known as the Bruce Cup) from 9 – 16 October at the Bendigo Tennis Centre.
The 2010 Victorian Pizzey Cup team of eight boys and eight girls has been announced. Congratulations to the following players who have been selected to compete for Victoria in the national event to be held in Wollongong in June: Boys Jordan Owens Mitchell Burman Leroy Miller Jordan Cowling Matt Findlay Sam Thompson Joshua Tran Terry Kyriakopoulos Girls Sophie Vickers Samantha Harris Stephanie Barnett Bianca Horsley Natalie Gennissen Michaela Capannolo Kelsey Williams Eliza Long
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RESULTS
REGIONAL
Tennis seniors star in State Championships
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he Tennis Seniors Victoria (TSV) 2010 Victorian Seniors Tennis Championships were played over the Labour Day long weekend in March at the Glen Iris Recreation and Dendy Park Tennis Clubs. The highlight was the appearance of former Davis Cup star, Wayne Arthurs, who played with his mother, Angie, in the Combined 90 mixed doubles event. Nearly 200 senior tennis players, 50 of whom were from interstate, contested 30 singles, doubles and mixed doubles events. The singles events ranged in age from men’s and women’s 35 to men’s 80 and women’s 70.
storms certainly provided a talking point! Friendships through a shared interest in tennis were fostered in the friendly but competitive environment. The inaugural Ward Hillier award was presented to the winner of the men’s 70 singles, Peter Froelich from Queensland (formerly from Melbourne). The award, which was presented by Ward’s son Peter, was created in memory of Ward Hillier who died suddenly after winning the 80+ ITF World Super-Seniors Championships in
Perth last November. Tennis Victoria President David Stobart presented the awards at a ceremony held on Monday at the conclusion of play. A full list of results can be found online at www.92computing.com.au. For any players aged 35 and over who are interested in regular social tournaments or competitive tournament play, please visit the Tennis Seniors Victoria website www.tennisseniorsvictoria.com.au.
Tennis making a comeback in Riddells Creek
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fter almost collapsing 18 months ago, the Riddells Creek Tennis Club has something to smile about thanks to a $100,000 grant from the Macedon Ranges Shire Council and a $60,000 Building Community Infrastructure grant from Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV). The club now has grand plans for its future, with nine new courts and a multi-purpose clubroom the end goal. For now, the club is focusing on stage one of the development – the building of three new courts. “We currently have six courts,” said Gary Plummer, President of Riddells Creek Tennis Club.
The tournament was completely organised by volunteers, with TSV President, Paul Kleverlaan, working hard in the tournament box, taking time off to play in the final of the men’s 40 singles.
“Only two are passable by Occupational Health and Safety standards.
Although the courts were subjected to the hailstorm Melbourne experienced over that weekend, the help of volunteers and ground staff to make repairs ensured the courts were not only playable but in great condition.
‘We plan to have nine courts all up, but we can only do it in stages. As we gather momentum we are also planning to bring in other clubs to build a multi-purpose clubroom.”
Whilst the hailstorm halted play suddenly, it did not dampen spirits. Competitors took the opportunity to socialise and the
The club still needs to raise another $50,000 from in-kind help and will do so through fundraising efforts, including their major trivia night plus meat and wood raffles.
Stewart and Mark Scott, two of our committee members,” said Plummer. “They’ve been the driving force for many years in trying to obtain grants for the tennis club.” Importantly, the club also had the support of the Macedon Ranges Shire Council and Joanne Duncan MP, State Member for Macedon, in submitting their application to SRV. Having reached a low point of just 30 members 18 months ago, the club is now thriving with 87 members, thanks to the new committee. The council could see that in a short space of time the outlook had turned around at the club, membership was growing and the township was in support of new courts.
to finalise the specifications for the new courts (including the playing surface), the township and clubs who also occupy the recreational reserve are excited by the planned changes. The club hopes to have its first matches on the new courts by the start of the season in January/February 2011. “We are working for the benefit of establishing the best possible facilities we can for the kids in the town and naturally that will flow on to the adults,” said Plummer. “A lot of the adults said ‘thank god the tennis courts are coming back so we can have a hit’ because they haven’t been able to do so for a while.”
“With the support of the council we were able to prepare an exceptionally good grant application,” said Plummer.
Claycourt Nationals
Applying for the grant was not easy, however the club had many people willing to help.
“We were actually congratulated by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council on the quality of our presentation.”
‘The application was done by Graham
Whilst the club is still yet
ictorian juniors headed to Queensland (QLD) in April to compete in the 12/u, 14/u and 16/u National Claycourt Championships. Whilst no one was able to bring home a singles title, Victorians captured two doubles titles and consolidated their great form from recent months.
Courting success in Flowerdale
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Katerina Valos edged closer to her maiden national singles title, reaching the semifinals of the 12/u girls’ singles, losing to the eventual winner, Naiktha Bains (QLD). In the 12/u girls’ doubles, Valos reached the semifinals with Anja Dokic from Western Australia (WA). Stephanie Raux and Maddison Inglis (WA) also reached the semifinals, losing to fellow Victorian Noelleda Ah San and Ivana Vojinovic (WA). Unfortunately, Ah San and Vojinovic lost at the final hurdle. In the 12/u boys’ doubles, Nicholas Cipri and Zak Marshall made the quarterfinals, while Caleb Boland and Cole Ingram (QLD) also made the quarterfinals before losing in a third set ‘match’ tie-break 6-4 2-6 10-3. Daniel Guccione and Marc Polmans made the quarterfinals in the 14/u boys’ singles,
Left to Right: Peter Froelich, Peter Hillier and Don Biddle.
with Polmans losing to fellow Victorian Jacob Grills. Grills played the No.1 seed, Bradley Mousley from South Australia (SA), in his semifinal and was defeated in a tight three-set match, 6-3 2-6 7-5. Grills and Stephen Kaldawi made the quarterfinals of the 14/u boys’ doubles, while Daniel Guccione and Andrej Lukic won the title with a tough 3-6 7-6(4) 10-6 victory in the final. In the 14/u girls, Samantha Harris made her first national singles final, defeating fellow Victorian Brigitte Beck (semifinal) along the way. Harris was defeated in the final in straight sets by an in-form Ashleigh Barty (QLD). Fellow Victorians Ashleigh Capannolo (semifinal) and Annabelle Andrinopoulos (quarterfinal) also fell victim to Barty. Capannolo and Harris paired up in the 14/u girls’ doubles and made the semifinals, losing a very close match, 3-6 6-3 17-15, to Lyann Hoang from QLD and Stephanie Yamada from New South Wales (NSW). Isabelle Wallace paired with Barty to make the semifinals, while Brigitte Beck and Danielle Wagland (NSW) made the quarterfinals. In the 16/u girls’ singles, Belinda
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS JULY’10
14/U boys’ doubles winners (l to r): Daniel Guccione and Andrej Lukic. Woolcock’s purple patch continued, reaching the final where she lost to Barty in straight sets. Along the way Woolcock defeated fellow Victorians Brigitte Beck (quarterfinal) and Molly Polak (semifinal). Azra Hadzic reached the other semifinal, defeating Capannolo in the quarterfinals. In the 16/u girls’ doubles, Woolcock and Polak paired up and won the tournament without dropping a set. Capannolo and Harris also paired up, making the semifinals. In the 16/u boys’ singles, No.1 seed Nathan Lemke made the quarterfinals, losing a tough match to the No.8 seed, Nicholas Kyrgios (Australian Capital Territory), 5-7 7-6(4) 6-3. Mitchell Burman also made the quarterfinals in singles and, paired with Travis Boon from QLD, made the final in doubles, losing to the No.1 seeded pair.
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lubs affected by the Black Saturday bushfires are continuing the re-building process, including the Flowerdale Tennis Club who recently received news that four new synthetic grass courts would be built thanks to a $60,000 State Government funding boost. In addition, the Murrindindi Shire Council will contribute $30,000 in funding and more than $45,000 of funding and in-kind support will be provided by the club. This includes donations made to the tennis club by other clubs and individuals after the bushfires. “In times of adversity, sport can play a key role in developing community strength – that’s why it’s so important that we continue to assist these clubs so that local people can stay involved in their communities and in sport,” said Sports Minister James Merlino, who was joined by the Member for Seymour, Ben Hardman, at the club’s home ground, the Spring Valley Recreation Reserve for the
Riddells Creek Tennis Club is looking forward to having new courts and a new multi-purpose clubroom.
funding announcement. The announcement follows on from the $100,000 grant the club received in July 2009 from the Bushfire Relief for Community Clubs Recovery Fund. Although none of the club’s courts were damaged in the bushfires, the club became the only sporting facility left in town as the relief village was built on the cricket field. Immediately after the fires, Tennis Victoria donated equipment through money raised by the Neale Fraser Foundation – Tennis Bushfire Relief Appeal. In addition, Tennis Victoria assisted in coordinating free coaching lessons for the community. As a result, a lot of people started to take up tennis for a bit of light relief, exercise and to socialise with, and support, those affected by the bushfires. “The club has grown from 32 members before the fires to 79 paid-up members,
many of whom are new to tennis and are really enjoying the physical and social benefits of playing regular sport in their own community,” said Jeanette Kamar, Flowerdale Tennis Club’s President. It is the result of the increased activities that has seen the club obtain the funds to secure its future. “There were many people and organisations involved in ensuring the future of the Flowerdale Tennis Club and to them we are eternally grateful,” said Kamar. Whilst construction of the new courts has not yet commenced, the club has been given priority because they are ready to start building. “I am not sure when we can start building, but we remain hopeful that it will be soon,” said Ms Kamar. “In the meantime the club continues to grow and the enthusiasm of all is amazing to see.”
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FACILITIES
FACILITIES
Introducing Australia’s largest indoor tennis centre
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ennis in Ballarat has a new home, with the unveiling of a $1 million redevelopment project in April.
Previously known as the Southern Indoor Tennis and Fitness Centre, Tennis Ballarat has been in operation since 1991 and has been family-owned and operated since 1995. “To show our commitment to the sport of tennis and the Ballarat tennis community we decided to become a completely tennis-focused business in 2009, at which time we closed the Southern Indoor gymnasium and embarked on the stadium expansion,” said Brad Greenbank, General Manager of Tennis Ballarat. The 6,500 square metre tennis stadium extension (that took eight months to complete) has seen Tennis Ballarat become the largest indoor tennis centre in Australia. Six new courts have been added to the facility and all 12 courts boast the Omnicourt synthetic grass surface, net posts and nets, draw curtain fencing and walkways for spectator viewing. In addition, an interior refurbishment to the amenities was completed, which included courtside and café spectator seating, a newly renovated interior with LCD TVs, a children’s
play area, café, a member’s gymnasium and the largest pro shop in Ballarat. “There are no other indoor tennis centres in regional Australia, let alone Ballarat, with these kinds of facilities on offer, and when you consider the cooler weather Ballarat is prone to, the tennis centre will provide a welcome year-round venue for lovers of sport, young and old,” said Greenbank. “We are planning on expanding our tournament and coaching calendars, as well as offering more elaborate tennis programs for juniors and adults.” The new centre was launched at a Club Open Day in April, which was a huge success. “We had over 800 people attend the day,” said Greenbank. “The day featured a free BBQ, tours of the new facility, a Scooby Doo jumping castle, face painting, over $2000 in prizes and giveaways and the opportunity to meet John Fitzgerald, tennis legend and Davis
Cup Team Captain.” Since the new centre was unveiled, feedback from members and the general public has been very positive. “The reaction to the changes have been fantastic,” said Greenbank. “There has been extremely positive feedback regarding the new walkways and spectator areas next to the courts and the new pro shop which has more than doubled in size. “With 12 courts now there is not as much waiting for court times or matches to start/ finish. Our new Tennis Workout schedule is receiving rave reviews with many of our members now playing more than two to three times per week, instead of the usual one competition. “We have also introduced a new membership structure which allows players to get a lot more value for money and allows them to play more tennis.”
Environmental lessons for the tennis industry
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an untreated red porous court (whilst maintaining a similar surface and quality of play).
clubs should be credited for embracing innovation and changing the way they use water around tennis facilities.
In recognition of the impact that red porous tennis courts have on the environment, and the economic sustainability of tennis clubs, Tennis Victoria has facilitated a number of measures to arrest any further decline in the sustainability of red porous courts.
“Following research into the effects of chemical additives, we have incorporated the latest technology in all 19 of our courts,” said Kevin Howard, President at DPTC. “The technology has proved to be a great water saver for the club.”
“We have a great opportunity to ensure that tennis in Australia can be sustainable on red porous court surfaces without having a detrimental effect on our water supply,” he said.
ed porous tennis courts have a long history in Victoria, but due to their heavy reliance on water and high maintenance, many clubs are choosing to resurface their courts.
In partnership with Dendy Park Tennis Club (DPTC), Tennis Victoria’s first challenge was to test water saving technologies that could effectively reduce the amount of water that tennis courts were using. Aided by a Smart Water Fund grant, Tennis Victoria and DPTC trialed the re-construction of four courts using bentonite and latex chemical additives to help absorb and retain water in the courts. The results of this trial show that the tennis industry is capable of reducing water usage on red porous courts by approximately 60 percent. Each court at DPTC now requires only 75 litres of water per day (approximately), compared with 222 litres per day for
Tennis Facility Planning Guide
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“I encourage tennis clubs and councils to use the TFPG and consult Tennis Victoria so that strong partnerships can be built for the benefit of increasing community participation through the sport of tennis,” said Ian Clark, CEO of Tennis Victoria.
With an estimated 421,000 tennis participants in Victoria, it is essential that people can access quality tennis courts and associated facilities. With more than 1000 tennis clubs maintaining and upgrading over 5500 tennis courts in the state, the TFPG will be a very important and useful resource for all tennis stakeholders.
The TFPG contains useful tips on a wide range of facility development topics, including planning, the different types of court surfaces, construction methods and lighting. It also contains case studies from Victorian clubs who have successfully undertaken development of their facilities. “We would like to extend our thanks to
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS JULY’10
The cornerstone of the Water Conservation Plans was the treatment of courts with either magnesium chloride or calcium chloride to reduce water usage. The court treatments work by either absorbing water from the atmosphere and/or better retaining water applied to the courts. Since the introduction of the Water Conservation Plans in November 2007, tennis clubs have consistently reduced water use by more than 50 percent, whilst still ensuring all courts are open for use. Tennis Victoria’s CEO, Ian Clark, believes
“The guidelines are an invaluable resource to clubs, demonstrating that a variety of water saving technologies are available and the extent of what can be achieved, in a user-friendly manner,” said Simon Thompson, Tennis Victoria’s Infrastructure and Environment Manager. The Environmentally Friendly Tennis Club Guidelines are available to all tennis clubs and contain case studies, trial results from the Smart Water Fund project and a number of ideas on water conservation. To download the guidelines visit tennis.com.au/vic (Clubs/Infrastructure and Environment/Water Conservation).
Tennis Victoria looks to the future in North West Melbourne
The impressive new-look Tennis Ballarat
ennis Victoria is pleased to announce that, in conjunction with the Victorian Government, it has produced a Tennis Facility Planning Guide (TFPG) to assist affiliates when developing their facilities.
Other clubs across Victoria are also getting involved in new water saving practices by applying magnesium chloride and calcium chloride to red porous courts. The introduction of Water Conservation Plans by water retailers resulted in many clubs paying attention to how water could be used more efficiently around the club.
Tennis Victoria has taken the opportunity to gather all this information and research to develop Environmentally Friendly Tennis Club Guidelines to encourage all clubs and councils to consider sustainable systems in the construction or redevelopment of red porous courts.
the Victorian Government, through Sport and Recreation Victoria, in teaming up with Tennis Victoria to develop the TFPG,” said Clark. Copies of the TFPG will be available at tennis.com.au/vic (Clubs/Infrastructure and Environment). Printed copies will be available in July. If you would like a copy, please contact your Community Tennis Officer on (03) 8420 8420.
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ennis clubs in north and west metropolitan Melbourne will be the beneficiaries of the newly completed North West Metropolitan Regional Tennis Facility Strategy, which has been developed to increase and improve tennis facilities in those areas. The Victorian Facility Planning Framework identified that, whilst the population of Melbourne’s west and north was increasing, the construction of new tennis courts was not matching the population growth. The aim of the strategy was to develop a coordinated approach to the provision of tennis facilities and club development opportunities in the north and west of Melbourne. More specifically, the municipalities focused upon are Banyule, Brimbank, Darebin, Hobsons Bay, Hume,
Melton, Maribyrnong, Moonee Valley, Moreland, Nillumbik, Whittlesea, Wyndham and Yarra.
say on long-term tennis facility planning,” said Simon Thompson, Tennis Victoria’s Infrastructure and Environment Manager.
Upon identifying this need, Tennis Victoria secured funding from the Victorian Government (through Sport and Recreation Victoria) and spent the last six months developing the strategy in conjunction with a number of stakeholders, including @leisure, who have considerable experience in preparing facility plans, market assessments, feasibility studies and business plans for tennis clubs and councils.
“The strategy could only be as good as the information given to us by club committees, volunteers, associations and council staff.
A number of workshops were also held in conjunction with local councils and interested tennis stakeholders. “It was very pleasing to have so many clubs attend the recent workshops and have their
“We have received some great feedback which has translated to a 10-year plan that will create partnerships to plan, fund and build more tennis facilities in each municipality,” said Thompson. Tennis clubs located in these areas who are considering updating their facilities are encouraged to contact Simon Thompson at Tennis Victoria via sthompson@tennis.com.au or (03) 8420 8420 to discuss future facility expansion.
tennis.com.au/vic
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CLUBS
2010/11 Affiliation Update
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hanks to feedback from clubs, we are continuing to review our processes in order to make player membership as easy as it can be for both individuals and club administrators. Some key points to note in relation to the 2010/11 membership year:
• Firstly, there will be no increase to the affiliation or player registration fees for 2010/11. • With the alignment of affiliation to the club’s membership year, all affiliation fees will now become due and payable when the club’s membership year commences. Further details of the affiliation process for 2010/11 will be sent out to all clubs 30 days prior to your membership year commencing.
My Tennis – making membership easy My Tennis, the online membership management tool, was introduced to all affiliated tennis clubs in 2009. Since its inception, over 100 clubs have signed up to use the system to effectively manage their membership. Free for all affiliated clubs to use, My Tennis can save considerable amounts of time and take the hassle out of
managing a club’s membership base. Case Study – Mayfield Park Tennis Club As a medium sized club with about 200 members, Mayfield Park Tennis Club (MPTC) was looking for a way to streamline its membership process and increase communication with members. With the recruitment of Fiona Scriven to the role of Membership Secretary in February, MPTC thought it was the perfect opportunity to trial the My Tennis membership software. The club arranged for a Tennis Victoria staff member to visit the club and run through the program in a one-on-one training session. “The one-on-one training session was fabulous, invaluable and provided us with the opportunity to address club specific issues,” said Shelley Preen, President at MPTC. “My Tennis has enabled MPTC to manage an accurate and current membership list. “We can tailor membership types to fit our club member types. Plus, we’re looking ahead to the next financial year when we can use My Tennis to detail additional payments such as team registration fees, gate key fees etc.” The club is also hoping to expand its use of My Tennis to include some of the
Member Benefits other features, including the use of online payments via electronic funds transfer (EFT) or credit card.
More information will be available in October at tennis.com.au/vic (Membership/ Member Benefits).
“Several members have enquired whether we offer credit card and EFT payment facilities,” said Preen.
AUSTRALIAN TENNIS MAGAZINE
“We believe online payments would speed up the payment/renewal process and result in [a] faster cash flow through to the club’s bank account.” Overall, MPTC has discovered many benefits from using My Tennis “We believe there are great advantages from a club administrator perspective, and would encourage other clubs to take up the program,” said Preen. Are you interested in finding out more about My Tennis and how it can help your club? Please contact Tennis Victoria’s Membership Department on (03) 8420 8420 or email membership@tennisvic.com.au to register your interest in using My Tennis. Tennis Victoria will be conducting several My Tennis training sessions throughout the year. Full details of these training sessions will be sent out to club administrators and advised through the Club Ambassador e-newsletter.
An exciting new website is coming
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ennis Australia, Tennis Victoria and affiliates who have websites hosted on tennis.com.au will soon be migrating their websites to an exciting new system that will go live in the coming months (exact date is still to be confirmed). The change means that clubs will have a faster and more reliable website that will look better and be easier to use. Some of the features include: • new design • updated club search that will help more people find your club • a new ‘clubs’ section that will give club websites more prominence • an advertising box that will allow you to promote your club’s supporters. These new features will allow your club to engage more closely with its members and provide them with a website that they will want to come back to. Now that we’ve built this new website, we’d like you to be a part of it.
How can my club be found on the new website? Over the past six months, the ‘Find a club’ function on the website has averaged 6,670 searches per month (4,099 unique). To ensure your club’s website can be found, it is important that the information in My Tennis is accurate. If your club has a website (either hosted on tennis.com.au or externally), please email vicnews@tennis.com.au with your club name and web address to ensure the database is up-to-date. What happens to my old website? If your club has an existing website hosted on tennis.com.au, the migration phase will require you to copy each page of your old website into the new Content Management System (CMS). To assist you in making this transition, we’ve developed a training website at training.tennis.com.au. This website is full of helpful information, including video tutorials, that will show you how to use the new CMS, an editorial style guide, information on how to write for the web and how best to incorporate images and graphics.
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS JULY’10
It is very important that if your club has an existing website hosted on tennis.com.au that content gets migrated to the new site before the ‘go live’ date, or your website will not be searchable. What happens to my old website? Old club websites will still be available until the new site goes live, at which point your old website will be archived for six months. After this, any content left on the site will not be accessible. Our club doesn’t have a website, can we create a new one? If your club has been thinking about setting up a website, now is the perfect opportunity to get on board. The great thing about using the CMS is that you don’t have to know how to write complicated HTML code to create a website. And even better is that as an affiliate of Tennis Victoria, you can take advantage of this benefit for FREE! You don’t have to pay any site hosting or set-up fees, making it an attractive option for affiliates with a limited marketing budget. Contact your Community Tennis Officer on (03) 8420 8420 to get started today.
MONTHLY PRIZE WINNERS* Congratulations to the following Tennis Victoria members who have won a tennis pack. To read more about the winners, visit the Tennis Victoria website tennis.com.au/vic (Membership/Member Benefits). April - Alan Cooney, Endeavour Hills TC May - Sam Gilbert, Drouin TC June - Jack Walsh, Heatherdale TC *Tennis Victoria randomly selects a member from our database each month to win a tennis prize pack.
Tennis Victoria members can subscribe to this high-quality publication with a special offer of $60 for 12 issues. This is a saving of $15 off the usual 12 month subscription rate, and $30 off the total cover price. To take out your subscription, simply complete and return the subscription form, available at tennis.com.au/vic (Membership/Member Benefits).
National Sports Museum Receive one complimentary child admission with the purchase of a full adult admission ticket to the National Sports Museum, MCG Tour or a combined National Sports Museum and MCG Tour.
PLAYER OFFERS
Download your voucher to redeem the offer from tennis.com.au/vic (Membership/ Membership Benefits). Conditions apply – see voucher for details.
AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2011 PRE-SALE
Prelli RacquetS
Tennis Victoria financial members will receive access to the pre-sale for Australian Open 2011 and Australian Open Series 2011 in September, 2010. Key pre-sale dates are as follows:
Members can benefit from Prelli’s 20 years of experience and take advantage of:
• A ustralian Open Ticket Packages Thu 2 – Thu 9 September
• A ustralian Open Single Session Tickets Fri 10 – Thu 16 September • A ustralian Open Series Ticket Packages Thu 2 – Thu 16 September • Australian Open Series Single Session Tickets Fri 10 – Thu 16 September Further information can be found in the information sheet and the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) available at tennis.com.au/vic (Membership/Member Benefits). We will also communicate this important information to members via email. Tennis Victoria must receive all new member data by 31 July, 2010 to ensure your club’s new members do not miss out on the pre-sale. It is also essential that we have member email addresses on file to effectively communicate this offer. Please encourage your club members to forward their full name, My Tennis ID and email address to vicnews@tennis.com.au.
AAMI CLASSIC Preferred seating is available to Tennis Victoria Members when booking tickets to the 2011 AAMI Classic at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club, 12-15 January.
• a flat re-stringing rate of $20 per re-string (excludes string) • a 10% discount on tennis racquets and accessories (excludes sale items) Simply show your Tennis Victoria membership card in store to access these offers. Visit Prelli Racquets at 207-209 Victoria Parade, Collingwood today.
RECOVER SPORTS MEDICINE Receive a 10% discount on physiotherapy treatments at Recover Sports Medicine Clinics (Richmond, Glen Waverley and Bayside) by presenting your membership card. Visit tennis.com.au/vic (Membership/ Member Benefits) for more information and location details.
INTREPID TRAVEL For travellers with a yearning to get off the beaten track, Intrepid opens up a whole new world – real people, real cultures and incredible real life experiences. Intrepid Travel offers Tennis Victoria Members 7% off their global adventures and will donate an additional 3% to the Neale Fraser Foundation from all bookings received. Full offer details are available online at www.intrepidtravel.com/tennisvic.
HERALD SUN Have the Herald Sun home delivered from
Mon-Sun for just $6.95 per week, a saving of 29% (conditions apply). Visit tennis.com.au/vic (Membership/ Member Benefits) for more information.
HOT OFF THE COURT Tennis Victoria’s exclusive player e-newsletter, Hot off the Court, is packed with up-to-date tennis information and special offers. If you are not receiving Hot off the Court and would like to, please forward your email address and My Tennis ID to vicnews@tennis.com.au or call (03) 8420 8420.
ENTERTAINMENT BOOK Tennis Victoria is selling the 2010/2011 Greater Melbourne and Geelong, Surf Coast and Ballarat Entertainment™ Books for $65 and $55 respectively. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Entertainment™ Books will go directly to the Neale Fraser Foundation - supporting player and facility development. Entertainment Books contain hundreds of 25-50% off and two-for-one offers from the finest restaurants, cafés, attractions, activities and accommodation. The 2010/2011 edition features great new inclusions such as Sarti, Comme Kitchen, Embrasse, Vin Cellar, St Judes Cellar, Public House, Les Boucheries Parisiennes, Michel’s Patisserie, Laurent and Reading Cinemas. Secure your 2010/2011 copy by completing the enclosed order form. If you have any queries, please contact Tennis Victoria reception on (03) 8420 8420.
CLUB OFFERS WILSON SPORTING GOODS Wilson Sporting Goods offers Tennis Victoria affiliates the opportunity to purchase Wilson Australian Open tennis balls at discounted prices. Please see the enclosed order form or visit tennis.com.au/vic (Clubs/Affiliation) to download your copy. Alternatively, contact Tennis Victoria reception via tvreception@tennis.com.au or (03) 8420 8420 to have a copy sent to you.
MOMENTUM ENERGY Momentum Energy offers clubs great energy rates and “cash back” to go towards your club’s development. With better customer service and green energy for businesses, Momentum Energy can help Tennis Victoria clubs to SWITCH, NOW SAVE. Call 1800 SWITCH (1800 794 824) to speak with the Tennis Victoria Account Manager today.
tennis.com.au/vic
To order your Australian Open tennis balls fax the enclosed order form to (03) 9587 2289
TIA census (USA, 2009), Yano census (Japan, 2009), SMS census (Europe, 2009
OFFICIAL BALL OF THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN OFFICIAL BALL OF TENNIS VICTORIA