Tennis NSW is committed to making tennis welcoming, safe and inclusive for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Adaptive Tennis offers flexible playing, learning and competitive opportunities so everyone can enjoy the game.

What is Adaptive Tennis?

Adaptive Tennis (also known as All Abilities Tennis) is the umbrella term for tennis opportunities specifically adapted to support players with a range of impairments, disabilities or additional needs. The sport is flexible — rules, equipment, coaching and formats can be adapted so participation is meaningful and successful for each individual.

This includes but is not limited to:

• Players with intellectual disability and autism
• Blind and low vision players
• Players who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Wheelchair tennis
• Para‑standing / adaptive standing tennis
• Social, participation and community‑based play

Programs and pathways range from social play to modified competitive opportunities.

For Coaches

Inclusion & Education

• Coaches are strongly encouraged to complete inclusion‑focused education such as Sport4All, an online training and inclusion resource developed in partnership with the Australian Government, Australian Sports Commission and people with lived experience of disability. This training helps coaches interpret how to adapt sessions, communication and activities for all participants.
• Tennis Australia Coach Members can also access adaptive coaching resources and tips via Bounce. These cover practical court‑based adaptations, skill progression and safe, inclusive session management.

For Players & Families

Getting Started

Adaptive Tennis is open to players regardless of prior tennis experience. Beginners and experienced players alike are welcome. It can be played in:
‑ Community sessions
‑ Club programs
‑ School visits
‑ Social events
‑ Competitive events tailored to adaptive categories

Tennis Programs & Competitions for Players with All Abilities

Eligibility & Classification

Different adaptive pathways have different classification frameworks. Please click through the different pathways at the top of this page.

Organisations:

GET IN TOUCH

To find out more, please get in touch with us via [email protected].