The Tennis Australia Super 10s National Camp is more than just a tournament; it is a developmental milestone that brings together the country’s most promising 10-and-under athletes. Held amidst the electric atmosphere of the Australian Open at Melbourne Park, the program blends elite match play with “money can’t buy” experiences, fostering both technical skill and the development of young tennis-stars.
For participant Hanna (Darwin International Tennis Centre player), the camp provided a unique window into the life of a professional athlete. From masterclasses with Grand Slam champions to the grit of court maintenance, here is a look at the program through the eyes of a rising star.
BUILDING CONNECTIONS THROUGH TENNIS
The Super 10s program emphasizes teamwork and connection, bringing together players who have progressed through the Green Ball pathway. For many, it is a chance to turn rivals into teammates.
“I enjoyed it very much because I made many new friends, I saw friends I made in Green Ball Nationals, and I learned more about tennis,” Hanna noted. “All of the players are good at attacking, defensive, and neutral balls.”
LEARNING FROM THE WORLD’S BEST
A hallmark of the National Camp is the access to elite mentors. This year, legends like Ash Barty and current stars like Storm Hunter and Maddison Inglis led sessions focused on the “mental game”, teaching the children that success is as much about mindset as it is about a swing.
“We had lessons on how they manage their emotions on and off the court,” Hanna explained. “I remember Maddison Inglis said for us to run after every ball… I applied this to my matches. When my opponent smashed on my backhand, I ran and returned it with a slice, and it went in and I won the point!”
On the influence of former World No. 1 Ash Barty, Hanna added:
“Ash Barty is very good at controlling her emotions… she told us to enjoy tennis.”
ON THE MAIN STAGE: THE COIN TOSS
One of the most prestigious opportunities within the program is being selected for an official Australian Open coin toss. Standing on the championship courts alongside global icons like Coco Gauff and Elina Svitolina bridges the gap between a child’s dream and their reality.
“I was very happy that I could do a coin toss in the quarter finals because they are both wonderful players and it felt like a dream come true.”
OBSERVING THE PROFESSIONAL STANDARD
Beyond their own matches, Super 10s players are encouraged to observe professional practice sessions. This provides a rare perspective on the sheer physical intensity required at the top level, details that are often lost when being watched on a screen.
“It was very cool seeing a professional player not on a TV,” Hanna observed. “On the TV, it doesn’t look like the ball is as fast, but in reality, it is faster and powerful. I still remember the ball sound. It was very exciting watching players like Iga Swiatek and Jannik Sinner practice up close.”
ACROSS ALL SURFACES
The program challenges players to adapt by providing training on grass, clay, and indoor surfaces. This exposure is vital for developing “all-court” players who can handle the different speeds and bounces of the global circuit.
“I enjoyed playing on the clay courts, but it is hard work to maintain them,” Hanna said. “The ball bounce is almost unpredictable on bumpy surfaces… every set, you must bag the courts, then you spray them with water to make them damp.”
LESSONS IN RESILIENCE FROM WHEELCHAIR TENNIS
The Super 10s also highlights the diversity of the sport. Watching the Wheelchair Tennis championships left a lasting impression on the juniors regarding the sheer athleticism and tenacity of the competitors.
“Wheelchair tennis is much harder,” Hanna reflected. “If you think the opponent is not going to reach the ball, they sometimes do, and it looks so tricky. I don’t think I will be able to play wheelchair tennis because I cannot push myself far with a wheelchair!”
COMING HOME
The Super 10s National Camp at the Australian Open continues to be a cornerstone of the Australian tennis pathway. By combining high-level competition with the inspiration of Melbourne Park, the program ensures that players like Hanna return home not just with better stats, but with a deeper love for the game and inspiration for the year ahead.
More opportunities await, with the next season of Super 10’s for 2026 coming in Term 3! Stay tuned with more information about how to register your child by following our socials.
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