ISSUE 80 APRIL 2011
V I C TORI A ’ S ON L Y M A G A Z INE D E D I C A TE D TO G R A SSROOTS TENNIS
Country week A successful return to Yarrawonga
summer of tennis Victorian juniors’ success
Clubs
Top 20 Community Clubs For 2010/11
Juniors
Future Leaders Graduate
Regional
2011 Inter-regional Country Championships
9 easy ways to attract players to your club ... ... and they’re available now!
Photographer: Andrew Gyopar
Photographer: Photographer: Andrew GyoparAndrew Gyopar
Tennis Victoria affiliated clubs and centres can access a range of programs to help build member numbers, engage various demographic groups and break down barriers to connect with more participants. There’s never been a better time to run one of our programs, including: • Club Open Days • MLC Tennis Hot Shots/Challenges • Seniors’ Social Program • Tennis in Schools
• Mums’ Program • Multicultural Program • Disability Program • Indigenous Program
To sign-up, or for more information, contact your Community Tennis Officer on (03) 8420 8420 today or visit tennis.com.au/vic (Clubs/Programs).
FROM THE TOP
ISSUE 8 0 A P RI L 2 0 1 1
Matthew Kennedy, Tennis Victoria – Executive Director
I am delighted to be writing my first message for the Victorian Tennis News as the new Executive Director of Tennis Victoria. I certainly look forward to working with all stakeholders for the greatest possible good of tennis – a true sport for all. January was an exciting time for me to get started with all that tennis is here in Victoria in the early part of each year. The Australian Open was once again a fantastic success and is clearly one of the world’s greatest sporting events, right here in our own backyard. In addition, this year’s AAMI Classic at the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club saw Australia’s Lleyton Hewitt take the title in his debut appearance at the event. At a grassroots level, Victoria’s 55th Inter-regional Country Championships were successfully staged at the Geelong Lawn Tennis Club and congratulations go to the Barwon region on its victory for the third year running. Then there was the annual occasion that is the Tankworld-Rebound Ace Sports Victorian Country Tennis Association Country Week, this year in Yarrawonga. With 200 teams and about 1300 players taking the week off work to play tennis, Country Week truly is a special and unique community event – both on and off the court! We are already looking ahead to Wangaratta (for the Inter-regionals) and Swan Hill (for Country Week) in 2012. In short, this has certainly been a time of year where we know many people become inspired to pick up a new, or possibly forgotten, racquet – and many more enjoy watching the best players of the game execute their craft. All of this bodes well for Tennis Victoria’s purpose to ‘make tennis a part of every Victorian’s life’. We are here to serve you so please feel free to contact your Community Tennis Officer at any time should we ever be able to assist your tennis endeavours in any way: Regional East Regional West Metropolitan North Metropolitan South Metropolitan East Metropolitan West Metropolitan South/East
Adam Feiner Jessica Hartland Nick Whitefield Adam Feiner (acting) Danielle Russom Chris Saliba Peter Jenkin
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Vic Success At December Showdown Australian Open/Series 2011 Di Toro, Cramer, Rae, Luczak Big Winners On Tennis’ Night Of Nights Meet Tennis Victoria’s New Staff Floods Impact Victorian Tennis Future Leaders Graduate
regional
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Barwon Make It Three In A Row Being A Good Sport Pays Off When Regional Victoria Comes To Play Country Week Vox Pop
participation
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Kids On Court Strengthening Ties Out West
juniors
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2011 State Academy Restructure Wayne Arthurs Cup National Foundation Cup
clubs
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Welcome To The Top 20 Program 2010/11 Affiliation Update
administrator Member Benefits
We trust you’ll find the articles about all that is happening in your sport in your state interesting and informative. In particular, I draw attention to the story on the devastating flood and storm damage of recent times, and how Tennis Victoria is working to assist those tennis communities concerned. Our thoughts and wishes go out to all those that have been affected. Until next time, here’s to enjoying your tennis and the fun and friendships that surround it.
CONTACT US Tennis Victoria Phone Fax Email Address Web
(03) 8420 8420 (03) 8420 8499 tvreception@tennis.com.au Locked Bag 6001 Richmond VIC 3121 tennis.com.au/vic
THE VTN TEAM Editor Contributors Production Cover Front Cover Photography
Lisa Winkler Tanya Mason Jessica Hartland Tennis Victoria Daniela Di Toro Getty Images
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.
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NEXT ISSUE: JULY 2011
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NEWS
Vic Success At December Showdown
A year of hard work for many Victorian athletes again came to fruition at the Australian Championships, otherwise known as the ‘December Showdown’. Victoria’s depth of talent was again on display, taking home four of the eight national singles titles on offer and winning the boys’ 14/u national team event.
Australian national championships In the girls’ 12/u event, ten-year-old young gun Destanee Aiava was in blistering form, making the semifinals, losing only four games in four matches. Aiava started well in her semifinal match against the No.1 seed, Sara Tomic, before losing 2-6 6-3 6-1. In the boys’ 12/u doubles, Chase Ferguson paired with Scott Jones (Western Australia) to win the title in a very close final over the No.1 seeds, 4-6 7-6(5) 10-8, while Michelle Pits paired with Priscilla Hon (Queensland) to win the girls’ 12/u doubles title, the pair not losing a set for the tournament.
Winning siblings: Samantha and Andrew Harris. Photographer: Mark Riedy.
Competing in her last 14/u national event, Brigitte Beck put in a determined performance to take out the title.
sister duo, Andrew and Samantha Harris winning the boys’ and girls’ national titles respectively.
went on to win back-to-back titles with a hard fought 6-1 5-7 6-4 win over the No.1 seed, James Duckworth (New South Wales).
Beck defeated the No.1 seed, Lyann Hoang (Queensland) convincingly in the semifinal, 6-2 6-0, and then went on to play fellow Victorian, close friend and training partner, Annabelle Andrinopoulos in the final, which she also won convincingly, 6-0 6-4.
The win for Andrew came just six months after returning to tennis following a 15-month injury lay-off.
In the girls’ 18/u event, Viktorija Rajicic, Azra Hadzic and Belinda Woolcock made it through the round robin stage before going out in the quarterfinals. Woolcock paired up with Stefani Stojic in the doubles and made the final, the pair going down to the No.1 seeds.
“I thought it was a really good tournament. It was my last 14/u nationals so I really wanted to do well. It feels really good to be a national champion,” said Beck.
“I came through as a wildcard and anything could have happened. I played some great tennis and came through with the result I wanted in the end.”
In the boys’ 14/u event, Daniel Guccione and Marc Polmans both had great runs, with Polmans reaching the quarterfinals and Guccione the final before going down to Harry Bourchier from Tasmania in straight sets.
Samantha Harris went into the event unseeded and upset the No.2 seed, Abbie Myers, in the final.
The 16/u event proved to be an all family and Victorian affair, with brother and
“It’s a great feeling,” said Harris after his come from behind 2-6 6-2 6-2 win.
“I didn’t have too many expectations this week but I thought I could do well,” said Harris after her win. “I think I had a good mindset and game plan and it worked.” Fellow Victorians Stefani Stojic and Molly Polak also had solid runs in the 16/u singles event, with Stojic making the semifinals and Polak the quarterfinals. Stojic went on to pair with Brooke Rischbieth (South Australia) in the doubles, with the pair defeating Polak and Ashley Keir (Australian Capital Territory) in a close match, 10-7 in a match tiebreak.
Brigitte Beck on her way to the 14/u title. Photographer: Jason Retchford.
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS APR’ 11
In the boys’ 18/u event, Andrew Whittington and Sean Berman made it through the round robin stage to the quarterfinals. Whilst Whittington lost in the quarterfinals, Berman
Australian NATIONAL teams’ championships In the 14/u teams’ event, the Victorian boys team of Daniel Guccione, Omar Jasika and Marc Polmans claimed the Sproule Stephens Trophy with a win over New South Wales, while the 14/u girls finished runner-up to Queensland in the battle for the Mary Hawton Trophy. The boys played well all week, with Guccione getting the team off to the best of starts in the final, winning his match in straight sets 6-1 6-3 over Jordan Smith. New South Wales hit back when Matthew Tanza’s perfect run at the event continued with a 7-6(5) 6-0 win over Jasika, sending the tie into a deciding doubles match. Polmans and Guccione prevailed in two sets, 6-4 6-4. Guccione was pleased with his form over the whole tournament, atoning for Victoria’s disappointing performance in 2009, where they finished seventh overall. “The whole tournament I’ve been playing pretty well, but today I played unbelievable,” said Guccione after the win.
NEWS Alicia Molik and Jelena Dokic also competing for the wildcard. Rogowska made it past the round robin stage and won through to the final where she came up against a determined Jelena Dokic. Rogowska got off to a slow start, losing the first set 1-6, before rallying to take the next two sets, 7-6(3) 6-3. “It means a lot, this year wasn’t my best year so to finish on such a positive note [makes me] really happy,” said Rogowska. Winners of the Sproule Stephens Trophy with Wayne Arthurs (l to r:) Omar Jasika, Daniel Guccione, Wayne Arthurs and Marc Polmans. Photographer: Jason Retchford.
Victorian team captain and relative coaching newcomer Wayne Arthurs was happy with his team’s performance during the event. “Being seeded No.2 leading into the tournament, it would have been a bit of a disappointment if we didn’t make the final, [and] it was probably a bit of a bonus that we won,” said Arthurs. Rain caused some delays in the girls’ team championships scheduling, meaning that both the semifinals and final were played on the same day. Victoria and Queensland proved their dominance to reach the final with clean sweeps over New South Wales and South Australia respectively. Victoria got off to a good start in the final with Brigitte Beck silencing Jaimee Gilbertson 6-1 6-4 before Naiktha Bains struck back for Queensland with a fighting 4-6 6-4 6-1 victory over Isabelle Wallace. With the tie locked at 1-1 the scene was set for a
memorable final rubber showdown that went right to the wire. Beck and Annabelle Andrinopoulos raced through the first set 6-1, however Queensland’s Bains and Lizette Cabrera were able to work their way back into the match, taking the second set 6-4. Queensland eventually got over the line 11-9 in the match tiebreak. Victoria also featured highly in the 12/u teams’ events, reaching the semifinals in both the boys’ and girls’ events before being knocked out. The December Showdown culminated with the Australian Open wildcard play-off, with a much coveted spot in Australian Open 2011 up for grabs. Viktorija Rajicic, Tammi Patterson, Azra Hadzic, Belinda Woolcock and Olivia Rogowska all competed in the women’s event. The girls faced some stiff competition, with seasoned campaigners
“Coming into the tournament I didn’t have the best result, I had a couple of tough losses, so I was just feeling a little down. I decided to come out this week and really give it my best shot and just take it one match at a time. “To win the whole thing is just an incredible feeling I can’t describe because I definitely didn’t see myself winning it, so I’m really happy.” On the men’s side, fellow Victorians and the No.1 and No.2 seeds, Peter Luczak and Marinko Matosevic met in the final for the ultimate prize. The duo battled it out in a seesawing match that Matosevic eventually won, 6-1 1-6 6-3 4-6 6-4. “It was pretty crazy,” said Matosevic after the win. “In the fourth [set] his energy just seemed to lift out of nowhere, then in the fifth I was down but managed to pull off five games in a row and just started to play aggressively.”
Australian Open/Series 2011
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ally Peers was in great form over summer and was rewarded with wildcards into the Brisbane International, Moorilla Hobart International and the Australian Open (AO). She opened her campaign in Brisbane with a win over then world No.25 Alisa Kleybanova in three sets, 3-6 6-4 6-3. After the match, Peers said it was the biggest win of her career to date. “To get through against Kleybanova who’s such a quality player, I’m really, really excited.” This was Peers’ second win over a top 100 player, her first coming at the US Open against then world No.54, Aleksandra Wozniak. Peers joined fellow Victorian and wildcard recipient Olivia Rogowska in the main draw of the Moorilla Hobart International, with both girls going out in straight sets.
Anastasia Rodionova’s year got off to a slow start, losing her opening round matches at the Brisbane International, Medibank International and the AO. Peter Luczak and Marinko Matosevic each faced the same fate, losing their opening rounds at the Brisbane International, winning through to the second round of the Medibank International and losing in the first round of the AO. In the AO wheelchair event, Daniela Di Toro made the final, before going down to a red hot Esther Vergeer from the Netherlands who won her 407th straight singles match and 17th consecutive Grand Slam title. In the juniors, Sean Berman was unable to repeat his finalist performance of 2010, losing to the No.1 seed and eventual winner, Jiri Vesely (Czech Republic) in the third round. Andrew Whittington also made the third round before losing to the No.8 seed,
Sally Peers took some time out with MLC Tennis Hot Shots participants during the Brisbane International.
Jeson Patrombon (Philippines) in three sets. In the girls, Stefani Stojic made the second round, losing to eventual finalist Monica Puig (Puerto Rico). Andrew Harris, Samantha Harris, Belinda Woolcock and Azra Hadzic also contested the junior event. Unfortunately their first round opponents were too good for them on the day.
tennis.com.au/vic
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NEWS
Di Toro, Cramer, Rae and Luczak Big Winners On Tennis’ Night Of Nights Tennis Victoria congratulates Daniela Di Toro, Kerrilyn Cramer, Andrew Rae and Peter Luczak for winning their respective categories at the inaugural Australian Tennis Awards in December. Whilst Queenslander Samantha Stosur took home the premier award of the evening, the Newcombe Medal, it was great to see Victorians excelling in other areas of the sport. Daniela Di Toro was crowned the Most Outstanding Athlete with a Disability. 2010 was a successful year for the wheelchair player, reaching the Australian Open quarterfinal, French Open semifinal and US Open final. Di Toro also claimed titles at the Japan Open and the Korea Open, finishing the year ranked No.2 in the world. “Wow, it’s the first [and] it is pretty extraordinary,” said Di Toro on claiming the award. “We’re a big part of the tennis community and it’s a beautiful opportunity to be recognised as such. It is a real honour and I
Andrew Rae with Tennis Australia CEO Steve Wood. Photographer: Mark Reidy
am sharing it with some amazing talent out there.” Mount Waverley’s Kerrilyn Cramer received the Excellence in Officiating Award. Cramer has been working as a full-time official since 2001. “As an Australian we have so many great role models and leaders in officiating, so for me to receive this award it is a real privilege, and I am happy Tennis Australia has acknowledged the work officials do,” said Cramer
Coaching Excellence - High Performance Nicole Pratt
“I am very humbled to be recognised in such a famous auditorium as we are tonight,” said Rae in accepting his award.
Coaching Excellence - MLC Tennis Hot Shots Wes Horskins
The world No.1 for the 55+ category has been playing seniors’ tennis for 20 years with a lot of success.
Excellence in Officiating James Tucker
Peter Luczak was honoured on the night, receiving the 2010 Spirit of Tennis Award, acknowledging the exemplary conduct and attitude of the tour’s ‘nice guy’.
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS APR’ 11
Coaching Excellence - Club Lee Pearson Wes Horskins
Andrew Rae of Mount Eliza received the Most Outstanding 35+ Tennis Senior Award.
“It is very nice at my age to be recognised and acknowledged. I feel very honoured,” said Rae.
Spirit of Tennis award winner, Peter Luczak. Photographer: Jaimi Chisholm
Tennis Victoria would also like to acknowledge all Victorians nominated for their outstanding commitment to tennis and being a finalist in their respective categories:
“It’s unbelievable; I didn’t know I was up for an award ... I think it is a great honour that your peers hold you in such high regard and think you’re a good person and bring more to tennis than [just] being a good tennis player.”
Most Outstanding 35+ Tennis Senior Carl Anjou Most Outstanding Athlete with a Disability Zvi Schwietzer Most Outstanding Club Geelong Lawn Tennis Club Most Outstanding Tennis Community Bendigo Tennis Association Volunteer Achievement Award Tom Hancy
NEWS
Meet Tennis Victoria’s New Staff
Martin Stillman - Programs Manager
Chris Saliba - Community Tennis Officer Metropolitan West
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“I am looking to continue to build on the foundations set by the former Programs Manager and Community Tennis Officers to ensure tennis is an attractive sport to both males and females,” said Stillman.
Chris has been playing tennis for 15 years and is an active member and committee member at Green Gully Tennis Club. He is now looking forward to helping grow tennis, a sport he is passionate about and has derived much joy from.
artin Stillman comes to Tennis Victoria with a wealth of knowledge, having spent 23 years in the sporting industry. With experience in program development, and an ability to lead and manage staff, Martin is looking forward to the challenge of increasing participation in tennis.
hris comes to Tennis Victoria from Hockey Victoria where he was the Competitions and Events Coordinator, responsible for over 850 teams across 60 clubs. He has a double degree in Sports Administration and Business Management.
Along with his wife, Martin is an active member at Mulgrave Country Club where he plays socially for fun and fitness. Tennis Victoria welcomes Martin and would also like to thank and acknowledge Adam Crameri for his work in the role over the past six years.
“Tennis is a great sport and the clubs and volunteers do a great job. I want to assist them to become the best they can be,” said Saliba.
Peter Jenkin - Community Tennis Officer Metropolitan South/East
Emily Arnott - Player Development Coordinator
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mily has an extensive background in tennis from travelling on the international circuit and establishing a world ranking to playing State Grade for Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club. She is a Club Professional qualified coach, was the Head Coach at Dromana Tennis Club and has been coaching for six years. Emily’s new role is to support Tennis Victoria’s Player Development Manager, Ashley Naumann, with the delivery of the player development programs.
eter recently completed a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Sport and Leisure Management and has spent the last six years at Boroondara Tennis Centre in a variety of administration roles, as well as working in retail and customer service. “I look forward to combining my experience, qualifications and passion for tennis in my new opportunity with Tennis Victoria,” said Jenkin.
Tennis Victoria thanks Aaron Higginbotham for his work in the role over the past two-and-a-half years.
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Peter will also be working closely with the Tennis in Schools and MLC Tennis Hot Shots programs where he hopes to have a positive impact on participation.
Although she will be based in Tennis Victoria’s office, Emily will also spend time on-court with the State Academy, the Talent Search and Development Program and the Advantage Program. More specifically, Emily hopes to be a positive role model for female tennis players and to encourage their participation and development in tennis.
Tennis Victoria welcomes Peter to the team and thanks Matthew Sluggett for his work in the role over the past 16 months.
“I hope to be able to have a positive impact on junior players coming through the player pathway,” said Arnott.
tennis.com.au/vic
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AWARDS NEWS
Floods Impact Victorian Tennis Following a decade of drought, many country tennis clubs are now facing the prospect of having to rebuild their clubs after being damaged by the recent Victorian floods. “Once again, the volunteer labour and effort from communities to get courts up and running to ensure juniors have somewhere to hit, or provide competition, has been inspiring.”
Across the state, floodwaters have inundated tennis courts and clubhouses that, at this time of year, are normally packed with participants. Unfortunately, clubs are now dealing with damaged fences and flooded kitchens and many are operating with a reduced number of courts. Tennis Victoria has conducted telephone assessments and site visits at badly affected clubs to try and determine the extent of the damage. A number of club committees are concerned that the true extent of the flood damage is yet to present itself because, as the flooded sub-surface dries out, movement under tennis court surfaces may occur and result in heaving and cracking of court bases. “Apart from court surfaces and court infrastructure literally being washed away through the force of flood waters, the biggest threat to the integrity of tennis courts is the change in moisture content and the associated movement of sub surfaces,” said Michael Bodman, Technical Services Consultant from Inside Edge Sport and Leisure Planning. “Moisture, and there has been plenty of it recently, is the natural enemy of concrete and asphalt based courts and any penetration into base pavements or between acrylic and synthetic court surfaces
Natimuk Tennis Club’s courts were severely damaged by the floods.
and pavements is likely to result in costly rectification works.” Tennis Victoria suggests that clubs monitor their court surface(s) and record any changes in appearance, such as the width and length of cracking and undulations. Major cracking can be a trip hazard and compromise the safety of players, as well as compromise the playability of the court and the ability to enjoy a true and flat ball bounce. Fencing has also proved to be a major issue. In some cases it has been washed away, damaged or collected large amounts of sticks, logs and debris. “The clean-up effort has been huge,” said Simon Thompson, Tennis Victoria’s Infrastructure and Environment Manager.
Future Leaders Graduate
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ine Future Leaders recently graduated from the program and are well on their way to becoming active members of their respective tennis clubs. The participants all attended the Future Leaders camp mid-way through 2010 where they took part in leadership activities, development workshops and an Introduction to MLC Tennis Hot Shots Coaching Course. Participants went on to complete 40 hours of volunteer work to complete a project of their preference at their tennis club. Projects included MLC Tennis Hot Shots delivery, website development and running various tournaments and competitions. Tennis Victoria would like to congratulate the following participants for their involvement in the program and wish them every success for their future endeavours:
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS APR’ 11
Tennis Victoria is committed to supporting tennis clubs who have been affected by the recent floods. Tennis Victoria’s role has been to communicate and coordinate available support to those clubs affected, including advice on funding, facilities and programs. If your club has been damaged and you are concerned about its future, please contact Tennis Victoria to discuss a range of measures and support available. “Many clubs might be unaware of the grants available from sources such as the Commonwealth Bank through to the state government,” said Thompson. “We’re also matching equipment donations, such as clubs wanting to donate nets to clubs who have seen their nets simply washed away.” If you represent a club that has been damaged by the floods, or a club wishing to donate nets or equipment, please contact your Community Tennis Officer at Tennis Victoria on (03) 8420 8420.
Do you want to be a Future Leader? The Future Leaders program is back in 2011 and is a great way to prepare you for leadership roles within sporting clubs and associations. Limited to 30 students in Year 10 or 11, the program will help give you a foot in the door to a career in sport.
The class of 2010 at their graduation on the banks of the Yarra River.
2010 Future leader graduates • • • • • • • • •
Lani Hamilton John Le Vanessa Nguyen Morgan Lobe Matthew Logan Josh Martin Simon Nickels Simone Phillips James Wong
2011 Program When: 4-6 July Where: Anglesea Recreation Camp Great Ocean Road, Anglesea Cost: $95, including all meals and activities For more information, including the application form, visit www.tennis.com.au/vic/play-tennis/ getting-started/future-leaders
REGIONAL
Barwon Make It Three In A Row
Host region Barwon claimed the honours as the overall winner of the 55th Inter-regional Country Championships held at Geelong Lawn Tennis Club in January. As the pinnacle event for top country players to represent their region and play in a team, the 2011 Inter-regional Country Championships saw high-quality matches played in all 30 events. “The players competed in [the] true spirit of the game, and the team camaraderie was particularly pleasing to witness,” said Russell Hart, Tournament Director. “The team atmosphere is valuable in keeping players involved in the sport. Tennis in regional Victoria is very strong and events such as the Inter-regional Country Championships provide an opportunity for players to continue their pathway in the sport.” Loddon Campaspe triumphed in both Open Singles events, with Curt Garwood defeating Justin Robinson (Barwon) to win his second successive title, and Jessica Hartland defeating Vicki Stuckey (Central Gippsland). Layla Simmie (Goulburn) had an outstanding tournament, capturing the Girls’ 12/u Singles, Doubles (with Danika Stacey) and Mixed Doubles (with Louis Pinnuck) events. Central Gippsland’s Josh Charlton won the Boys’ 12/u Singles and Doubles (with Jack Clements) events.
Barwon won the Inter-regional Country Championships for the third year in a row.
Oscar McDonald (Wimmera) and Bianca Duff (Barwon) were standout performers in the 14/u events, winning their respective singles and doubles events. Fairlie Lamond (South West) successfully defended her Women’s 45 Singles title and also won the Women’s 45 Doubles with Julie McDonald. Josie New (Goulburn) won the Open Women’s Doubles with Helene Steward and Open Mixed Doubles with David Starling. Steve Packham (Central Highlands) performed well to win the Men’s 45 Singles event, defeating Tony Brushfield (Barwon) in the final.
Congratulations to everyone involved in another successful event in 2011. The final standings were: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Barwon – 136 points Goulburn – 64 points South West – 54 points Wimmera – 52 points Loddon Campaspe – 48 points Central Highlands – 38 points Central Gippsland – 38 points Mornington Peninsula – 18 points Northern Mallee – 18 points East Gippsland – 14 points
Cooke shield for most improved region East Gippsland
Being A Good Sport Pays Off
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n December 2010, the Sale Tennis Club was named the joint winner of the Victorian Good Sports Club of the Year award, along with Maldon Football Netball Club. Sale Tennis Club was recognised for its work in the program at the Australian Drug Foundation’s annual Dame Elisabeth Murdoch Oration at the State Library of Victoria and was awarded a cheque for $1000. “Unfortunately, for some considerable time alcohol was seen as an essential accompaniment to the court activities and was not always consumed responsibly or safely,” said Robin Lowe, President of the Sale Tennis Club. “At first there was some hostility from the first few who were refused service, however
members started to notice the change and advantages.” Along with the award, Sale Tennis Club’s participation in the Good Sports program has assisted in the achievement of one of its main goals of becoming a Tennis Australia Regional Partner. “Our participation in the Good Sports program was one of the factors that resulted in this partnership,” said Lowe. In line with winning the award, and the initiative of the program being ‘to develop safer and healthier communities’, the club will be holding a charity event later in the year called ‘Bubbles, Balls and Laughter’. The club will promote the local ladies’ competition and tennis as a healthy option in the region, where ladies of all shapes, sizes
Sale Tennis Club was named joint winner of the Victorian Good Sports Club of the Year.
and personality can improve their fitness and have a laugh at the same time. The Good Sports program is an initiative of the Australian Drug Foundation to develop safer and healthier communities. For more information about the program, visit www.goodsports.com.au.
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AWARDS REGIONAL
When Regional Victoria Comes To Play
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t’s an event where friendships are formed, renewed and strengthened.
It’s an event where eskys, deck chairs and ice are a must. It’s a week where the drinks flow as freely as the conversation. It’s a week where sunscreen and sunburn are as common as the stroke-making. It’s the event where Pat and Carol rule the roost. It’s the event where no umpires, no linespeople, and no ballkids mean sportsmanship is at the fore. It’s the event where regional Victoria comes to play tennis. It’s the Tankworld-Rebound Ace Country Week and 2011 saw the event return to the Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club for the first time in 12 years. With more than 1200 players in attendance, Country Week gave people the opportunity to catch up with those they hadn’t seen in 12 months. Breaks between matches and nightly entertainment ensured players had enough time to catch-up and socialise. Pat Gilchrist from the VCTA said the social activities were tremendously supported.
“We’ve had the best time up here. Yarrawonga is the players’ preferred venue because of the entertainment that is provided by the three big clubs and indeed the entire town,” said Gilchrist. Amongst the many stories shared was that of newlyweds, Michelle Little and Shane Flynn, who met at Country Week in 2005. For many years the pair only saw each other at Country Week until love blossomed a couple of years ago. “Nothing really happened until two years ago. And then he started coming to see me on weekends and [then] moved down [to Geelong from Wangaratta].” And whilst weather played havoc with the courts in the lead up to the event, the club pulled out all stops to ensure the courts were playable in time. “When we got here on Friday we had a look at the courts and the second and third venues were literally under water,” said Gilchrist. “We really thought that we probably wouldn’t be able to play on Monday, but when we came down on Sunday morning there were masses of volunteers from the Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club doing what I’ve never seen happen before. “Underneath a ride on mower were some squeegees and they were literally spraying the water off the courts. By Sunday afternoon
the courts looked magnificent and on Monday morning we were able to play on all courts. It was a phenomenal effort by the Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club.” The Moira Shire contributed significantly to the event by investing heavily in the junior cricket ovals to bring them up to scratch to play tennis on. “Country Week has been an outstanding success for Yarrawonga and Moira Shire,” said David Booth, Manager Community Development at Moira Shire. “Yarrawonga, we were led to believe, was a popular spot from a player’s perspective. We know Yarrawonga’s a fantastic place to live and play so we’re not surprised at all by people enjoying themselves up here. “Initially council committed to supporting the event without necessarily knowing what that might entail. As it turns out, the inability to use one of the proposed venues led us to invest heavily in our junior cricket ovals.” Booth says the council would be keen to have Country Week back in three years time. “We’ll speak with the Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club, we’ll consider what their challenges would be in consideration of hosting the event again and we would certainly encourage them and us to partner together again to attract the event back.”
Country Week Vox Pop
Name: Paul Rowbottom Team/Grade: Gippsland, A How many Country Weeks have you attended? This is my eleventh Describe Country Week in three words: Hard work, very social, good competition What do you love most about Country Week? To come away with a team because tennis is so individual. Where did you travel from? Phillip Island
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS APRIL’ 11
Name: Leonie Goyne Team/Grade: Wodonga West, C3 How many Country Weeks have you attended? Three Describe Country Week in three words: A great opportunity What do you love most about Country Week? I love the fact that there are so many grades, it doesn’t matter how you play, there’s something for everybody. Where did you travel from? Wodonga
Name: Peter Beasley Team/Grade: Cobram, B Special 2 How many Country Weeks have you attended? Eight Describe Country Week in three words: Social, fun, tiring What do you love most about Country Week? The social aspect Where did you travel from? Cobram
REGIONAL
Name: Jessica Brewster Team/Grade: Marnoo Navarre, C3 How many Country Weeks have you attended? This is my second Describe Country Week in three words: Fun, exercise, social What do you love most about Country Week? [It’s] a week off work Where did you travel from? Stawell
Name: Andrew Harris Team/Grade: Wangaratta Green, B1 How many Country Weeks have you attended? Fourteen Describe Country Week in three words: Fun, alcohol, tennis What do you love most about Country Week? It’s one of the greatest weeks going. I get to hang around with my old man for five days, have a few beers and play some tennis Where did you travel from? Wangaratta
Name: Bev Kilkenny and Brenda Bishop Team/Grade: Sunbury Ladybirds, C Special 2 How many Country Weeks have you attended? Twelve and Twenty Describe Country Week in three words: Fantastic, fun and exhausting What do you love most about Country Week? Everything. Playing tennis and meeting everyone Where did you travel from? Sunbury and Lancefield
tennis.com.au/vic
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PARTICIPATION
Kids On Court Whilst the December Showdown and Australian Open provided emerging Australian talent, and the best in the world, the opportunity to battle it out for ultimate honours, there was an equally important opportunity provided for youngsters to participate on-court and give MLC Tennis Hot Shots a go. For the first time at the December Showdown, the Schools Experience and MLC Tennis Hot Shots Red Ball Challenge events were introduced. The Schools Experience provided children from a range of schools across Victoria with the opportunity to participate in structured and unstructured school days at Melbourne Park. The MLC Tennis Hot Shots Red Ball Challenge event gave registered deliverers the chance to participate in a competition played in a round robin team format, with the winning team presented with tickets to Australian Open 2011. Every MLC Tennis Hot Shots deliverer and every primary school throughout Victoria was invited to participate during the event. Tennis Victoria and Tennis Australia coordinated the school groups and MLC Tennis Hot Shots deliverers for on-court experiences, Melbourne Park tours and an opportunity to watch some of the best emerging talent. “Everyone including myself had a fantastic time at Melbourne Park,” said Patrick D’Arcy
from Fleetwood Primary School who participated in the Schools Experience. “I will certainly be implementing tennis as a big part of my PE program in 2011.” In total, 31 schools, and 1487 children attended and participated in the Schools Experience component. A highlight for some of the youngsters were on-court player appearances, including Alicia Molik, Peter Luczak, Anastasia Rodionova, Jelena Dokic, Isabella Holland and Sam Groth.
Australian tennis heroes spent time with primary school children at the December Showdown. Photographer: Kara Tyson..
The Red Ball Challenge event saw 15 MLC Tennis Hot Shots deliverers and 94 children between the ages of 5-8 participate.
the opportunity to be a part of Australian Open 2011 with the MLC Tennis Hot Shots Showcase (Kids on Court).
“As a parent, but also a club committee representative, it was a really positive and well organised experience and I know that my son had a great time and was inspired to keep playing tennis,” said James Findlay from Eley Park Tennis Club.
During the first eight days of the Australian Open, current MLC Tennis Hot Shots deliverers and their participants were invited to participate in on-court demonstrations before play began on Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and Show Court 3.
As well as the December Showdown experiences, registered MLC Tennis Hot Shots deliverers from Victoria were given
More than 250 MLC Tennis Hot Shots participants took part in the demonstrations, hopefully fuelling their passion for the sport.
Strengthening Ties Out West Twelve months on from starting the program, the club is still heavily involved in providing opportunities for new arrival communities to access the sport and has maintained these partnerships and links to the community. New Club Coach Matthew Smith is committed to continuing the club’s involvement in the program. “I firmly believe in the importance of sport as a pathway to community engagement,” said Smith.
Participants at the Multicultural day were treated to a feast, including vegemite and cheese sandwiches. Photographer: Andrew Gyopar.
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he Multicultural Program at Werribee Central Tennis Club is going from strength to strength, recently holding their second successful Multicultural Day, with over 120 people attending.
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS APR’ 11
events to be able to share authentic flavours from the local community. The club has found that bringing people together over familiar activities such as food and music has proved successful in opening them up to new activities like participating in community sports. All participants were invited back to the club for a three week coaching program which the club hopes will become a permanent program in 2011.
“Here at Werribee Central Tennis Club we strive to deliver inclusive programs, promote health, wellness, skill development and self discipline.”
“The Multicultural Day and Multicultural Program being run by Werribee Central is fantastic and a credit to Matt and the club,” said Tim Hatzi, Tennis Victoria’s Club and Programs Coordinator.
The Multicultural Day’s activities included mini tennis, coaching drills, a DJ and a multicultural feast. The club’s extended family pitched in to make the day a real success. They hope to encourage families to participate in food preparation at future
“In addition to support provided by Tennis Victoria, the club has received a lot of support from Spirit West Services and the Western English Language School (WELS) which has been invaluable to the continued success of the program.”
JUNIORS
2011 State Academy Restructure
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ennis Victoria’s State Academy has been restructured for 2011 to ensure that talented young players in Victoria continue to have the best opportunity to further their tennis development. Ashley Naumann at Tennis Victoria has taken on the new role of Player Development Manager and has become the Head Coach of the State Academy. He will be supported by new Player Development Coordinator Emily Arnott (see page 7 for more information) and a very experienced team of coaches. “We are trying to give players every opportunity to develop,” said Naumann. The new team are focussed on creating a positive training culture and ensuring that
the intensity and training is at the highest level.
Other changes include the integration of the 12/u Talent Development Program into the State Academy and the devotion of more time and resources to the program. “This new structure gives the opportunity for more players to be tracking to the highest level,” said Naumann. Players within the State Academy program will be given a very specific structure and plan, including weekly training themes.
Wayne Arthurs Cup North Suburban Junior Tennis Association (NSJTA) successfully defended their 2009 Wayne Arthurs Cup title, defeating Eastern Region Tennis in a closely fought final. The final came down to the mixed doubles sets as only two games separated the teams at the end of the four singles matches. Joshua Griffin and Elli Zafiridis scored singles wins for Eastern Region Tennis, as did Marcus Stathos and Alexia Zappone for NSJTA. However, the mixed pairings for NSJTA proved to be too strong, with Marcus Stathos and Peta Valos defeating Joshua Griffin and Elli Zafiridis, 6-3. Mason Naumovski and Alexia Zappone ensured victory for NSJTA in the last set of the day, defeating Jackson Bruce-Tennant and Jasmin Starr, 7-5. “It was a good result [for] NSJTA, winning back to back titles in a close final,” said Brendan Noonan, Junior Events Committee
member for NSJTA. “The cup gives the kids an opportunity to play in a team and represent their association in a team environment. We had a try-out day with plenty of young juniors, which was great to see, and a team hit in the lead up to the event.” With support from the Kooyong Foundation, the event was held in early December at Australia’s spiritual home of tennis, the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club. An event for boys and girls aged 10/u, 14 teams and 56 players from across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria took part. “The Wayne Arthurs Cup provides a great opportunity for young players to play in a team event and at a venue such as Kooyong, which is rich in tennis history,” said Wayne Arthurs. “It is a great opportunity for some of our promising players to compete and I’m proud to be part of Tennis Victoria’s Regional Team Events.”
The winning NSJTA team with Tennis Victoria Board Member Susie Norton. Photographer: Andrew Gyopar.
State Academy Victoria
The restructure will provide more support for players currently sitting outside the National Academy criteria (a top eight ranking in Victoria or a top 20 ranking nationally in their birth year).
Outside of the weekly program, players are also provided with access to sports science providers, player/parent meetings and tournament support; both coach support during the day at a tournament or full duty of care on inter-state tours. The Sate Academy will also provide support and direction not only to the players, but also their families and private coaches as well.
National Foundation Cup
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ongratulations to David Hough, Erik Holt-Crossman, Sam Wilde, Henry Bennett, Danielle McIntyre, Sophie Torcello, Kaila McLean and Georgia Kelly for representing Victoria at the national 13/u Foundation Cup event held at the Parramatta City Complex during the Medibank International in January. The Victorian team played well all week, finishing second overall behind New South Wales (NSW). “This fantastic event provides a great opportunity to expand players’ experiences”, said Julie Glynn, the Victorian Girls’ Team Manager “All players learned that skill must be more than matched with court craft to win under the pressure of representing your state. It was a pleasure for John [Glynn] and I to manage the kids, and Alison Leydin must be congratulated for organising the event.” The boys will gain experience from their finals matches where they were outclassed by a dominant NSW, 6-12-77 to 0-1-35. In the girls’ final, Danielle McIntyre opened Victoria’s account with a 6-1 6-1 win over Taylah Beckman. Unfortunately this was Victoria’s only win, with NSW taking the final 5-10-69 to 1-3-48.
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AWARDS CLUBS
Welcome To The Top 20 Program Congratulations to Eildon Park Tennis Club and Langwarrin Tennis Club for joining Tennis Victoria’s Top 20 Community Club Program for the first time in 2010/11. Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club has also re-joined the program, after being part of it in its first year in 2008/09. Eildon Park has joined the program after membership increased to a record 440 members in 2009/10, a jump of 90 members from 2008/09. “The club is in a growth area and has the support of an active committee where our website is our main communication method to members,” said Michael Tomlinson, Eildon Park Tennis Club’s President. “We are in close contact with our council and Tennis Victoria and have an excellent relationship with Lee Pearson, our Club Coach.” Eildon Park funded the resurfacing of three of their nine synthetic courts and accommodates tennis players of any age or level through various competitions, social nights and coaching. They held a Club Open Day during Australian Open 2011, which attracted over 120 people and a number of new families to the club. “Being involved in the Top 20 [Community Club] Program has been terrific. We have a strong relationship with Tennis Victoria who has supported the club and committee,” said Tomlinson.
2010 was a successful year for top 20 clubs Liston, Dendy Park and Geelong Lawn who entered teams into the inaugural Premier League competition. Liston captured the men’s title, whilst Geelong Lawn was a finalist in both the men’s and women’s competitions. Clubs in the program are sent a quarterly e-newsletter sharing success stories from other top 20 clubs and valuable information, such as resources and programs to help grow membership and achieve their goals. Clubs are also presented with a certificate of recognition and Australian Open ground passes. The Top 20 Community Club Program was introduced in 2008/09 and highlights the top 20 clubs that have attained excellent membership through recruitment programs and initiatives. Tennis Victoria congratulates the clubs listed on their membership success and for becoming part of the program in 2010/11. To see how your club’s membership is tracking, please contact Tennis Victoria’s Membership Department on (03) 8420 8420 or email membership@tennisvic.com.au.
Top 20 Community Clubs for 2010/11 Club Name
No of Members
Geelong Lawn Tennis Club East Malvern Tennis Club Tally Ho Tennis Club Liston Tennis Club Royal Park Tennis Club Glenvale Tennis Club Dendy Park Tennis Club Eildon Park Tennis Club Willison Park Tennis Club Shepparton Lawn Tennis Club Essendon Tennis Club Park Orchards Tennis Club Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club Buckley Park Tennis Club Parkwood Tennis Club Maribyrnong Park Tennis Club Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club Swan Hill Lawn Tennis Club Beaumaris Lawn tennis Club Langwarrin Tennis Club
869 611 583 531 527 470 457 440 426 425 425 421 412 409 407 406 392 380 372 368
2010/11 Affiliation Update
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lub and competition tennis is back in full swing for 2011 following a great summer of tennis.
As an affiliate of Tennis Victoria (TV), it is important to make sure all your club members are registered with TV. If your club has any outstanding member reconciliations for 2010/11, please send them in as soon as possible to ensure your members receive the full benefit of TV membership, including personal accident insurance coverage. Please note: any club members that have been registered in a team for the 2011 Pennant competition must be registered as a member with TV before they play.
Insurance The new 2011 Certificate of Insurance Currency for all affiliates has been included with this edition of the VTN, along with an information sheet from Marsh answering some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) in
VTN VICTORIAN TENNIS NEWS APR’ 11
relation to insurance. A copy of this Certificate of Insurance Currency can also be requested by calling Tennis Victoria on (03) 8420 8420 or emailing membership@tennisvic.com.au.
My Tennis The number of clubs using My Tennis, the online membership management system, has grown significantly over the past year to 195. This is an increase of 93 clubs since April 2010.
Acing My Tennis Late last year the Membership Department launched a regular monthly email called Acing My Tennis. This is included as a link in the monthly Club Ambassador e-newsletter and provides support and advice to My Tennis club administrators who use the system. If you are not on the Club Ambassador mailing list, but would like to be, please send your email address to membership@tennisvic.com.au.
Upcoming My Tennis training A series of My Tennis training sessions will be held in May and June for clubs who are currently using the system and clubs that are interested in using it for their 2011/12 membership year. While these training sessions are not essential to using the system, they are a good way to learn any new features and ensure you are getting the maximum benefit for your club and its members. Full details of these training sessions will be sent out to all My Tennis administrators and clubs who have registered an interest in using My Tennis. For more information about My Tennis, visit www.tennis.com.au/mytennis. To register your interest, call (03) 8420 8420 or email membership@tennisvic.com.au.
ADMINISTRATOR 15
Member Benefits TENNIS WORLD
RECOVER SPORTS MEDICINE
Tennis World gives Tennis Victoria members a chance to experience Melbourne Park, home of the Australian Open, with an exclusive buy one get one free offer for a Tennis Workout or a Guided Tour of Rod Laver Arena.
Receive a 10% discount on physiotherapy treatments at Recover Sports Medicine Clinics (Richmond, Glen Waverley and Bayside) by presenting your membership card.
To access this offer, simply present the voucher that is enclosed with your 2010/11 membership card. This offer is valid until 30 April 2011.
MONTHLY PRIZE WINNERS
For more information or location details, visit: tennis.com.au/vic/play-tennis/membership.
Congratulations to the following Tennis Victoria members who have been randomly selected from our database and have won a tennis pack. To read more about the winners, visit the Tennis Victoria website: tennis.com.au/vic/play-tennis/membership. January– Jim Bland, East Malvern TC February – Peter Collins, St Andrews TC March – Madeleine Simpson, St. Columba’s Ballarat TC
PLAYER OFFERS AUSTRALIAN TENNIS MAGAZINE 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.
INTREPID TRAVEL PRELLI RACQUETS Members can benefit from Prelli’s 20 years of experience and take advantage of: • 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.
To take out your subscription, simply complete and return the subscription form available at: tennis.com.au/vic/play-tennis/membership. A$7.50 NZ$8.40 US$7.50
HERALD SUN/THE WEEKLY TIMES RAFAEL NADAL
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VENUS & SERENA SiSTeRS iN SURReNdeR?
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Full offer details are available online at: www.intrepidtravel.com/tennisvic.
HOT OFF THE COURT
MARCH 2011
• TOMIC • CLIJSTERS • vERgEER
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.
Have the Herald Sun home delivered from Mon-Sun for just $6.95 per week, a saving of 29%*. Additionally, you can have The Weekly Times home delivered every Wednesday for a very special rate of $26 for 26 weeks*. That’s a great saving of $20.28 (or 44%) off the normal home delivery price! *Conditions apply. Visit: tennis.com.au/vic/play-tennis/membership for more information.
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.
CLUB OFFERS CLUB BALL PROGRAM Tennis Victoria would like to advise all affiliates that its sponsorship arrangement with Wilson has ended and it is currently working through a tender process to appoint an official ball sponsor. Tennis Victoria will advise all affiliates of the outcome of this process in due course.
Tennis Victoria would like to thank and acknowledge Lou Smarelli from Prelli Racquets for his sponsorship of the Prelli Achievement Award from 2004-2009 and Tennis Victoria’s Talent Development Program in 2010. We wish Lou all the best with his future endeavours.
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AUSTRALIA v UKRAINE 16–17 APRIL 2011
www.fedcup.com
Fed Cup by BNP Paribas World Group Play-off tie will be held at the Glen Iris Valley Recreation Club, Mt Waverley.
BOOK NOW AT TICKETEK.COM.AU/FEDCUP OR 13 28 49 Players shown may not necessarily be part of the teams