![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.tennis.com.au\/nt\/files\/2026\/01\/Image-3.jpg\")
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For the first time since the pandemic, the\u00a0<\/span>Australian Open Global Coaching Conference<\/span><\/b>\u00a0returned to its full, in-person, four-day format,\u00a0and Tennis NT was right at the heart of it!<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Representing the Territory, three of our dedicated coaches – <\/span>Martin Rocca, Andy Bhardwaj, and Andr\u00e9s Riffo Luco<\/span><\/b> – joined over 300 international peers at Melbourne Park. The event was a powerhouse of innovation, blending high-level biomechanics and business strategy with the sheer inspiration that only the year\u2019s first Grand Slam can provide.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The conference offered a diverse curriculum that spanned from the technicalities of the court to the mechanics of successful business management.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For\u00a0<\/span>Andy Bhardwaj<\/span><\/b>\u00a0(Head Coach & Manager, DITC), the focus was on immediate, practical application.\u00a0<\/span>“The on-court masterclasses were a highlight, especially biomechanics expert Mark Kovacs\u2019 breakdown of the return of serve,”<\/span><\/i>\u00a0Andy shared. He also noted the value of UK operator Emma Wells\u2019 insights into adult tennis and park operations, providing fresh ideas to implement back home in Darwin.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Martin Rocca<\/span><\/b>\u00a0(Tennis NT Talent & Coach Manager) highlighted the strategic depth of the 2026 format. Beyond the sessions on AI and Strength & Conditioning, Martin was moved by the Italian Tennis Federation\u2019s 25-year roadmap to success.\u00a0<\/span>“It showed how changing the mentality of clubs and coaches, paired with structured plans, creates a platform for players to succeed at a pro level,”<\/span><\/i> Martin explained. The opportunity to network over breakfast with legends like Paul Annacone – coach to Sampras and Federer – further underscored the elite calibre of the event.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For\u00a0<\/span>Andr\u00e9s Riffo Luco\u00a0<\/span><\/b>(Club Coach and 1 Point Slam Qualifier)<\/span>, the trip was deeply personal and multi-faceted. Not only did Andres attend the conference, but he also competed in the One Point Slam and worked at the Carlos Alcaraz Academy\u00a0sessions held in Melbourne.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n “The AO was a reminder of why I fell in love with tennis,” Andr\u00e9s said. “Meeting professionals like Marat Safin and Grigor Dimitrov was incredible, but it was the lesson in consistency and passion that resonated most. Whether as a player or a coach, this sport continues to shape who I am.”\u202fAlso sharing the love and unforgettable experiences with his father and partner.<\/span><\/i>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The return of our coaches from Melbourne marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for tennis in the Northern Territory. By investing in global perspectives and world-class methodologies, Tennis NT is ensuring that our local players – from juniors picking up a racquet for the first time to those striving for the pro circuit – benefit from the best coaching standards in the world.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n We look forward to seeing how Martin, Andy, and Andr\u00e9s translate these global insights into local achievements throughout the year. The future of Territory tennis is in very capable hands.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nWorld-Class Learning on the Big Stage<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
Passion and Perseverance<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
What’s Ahead For 2026<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
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