South Australia’s top young First Nations tennis talent returned from Darwin with outstanding results and unforgettable memories after competing at the 2025 National Indigenous Tennis Carnival (NITC).
The annual event brought together more than 160 players from across the country for four days of tennis, cultural celebration and connection, with competition across Hot Shots, Future Stars and Showdown events.
Team SA showcased both their skill and spirit, highlighted by Namallarri Mckenzie’s runner-up finish in the 14-and-under girls’ singles championship, and Jamain Agius’ recognition as South Australia’s Deadly Award winner for leadership, sportsmanship and positive spirit on and off the court. The team also recorded strong collective performances, finishing fourth overall in the Ash Barty Cup and securing third place in the Future Stars event.
Former world No.1 and 14-time Grand Slam champion Evonne Goolagong Cawley attended the carnival, sharing her wisdom and encouragement with participants.
“This event is one of the most unique programs that I’ve ever been in. It’s not just about tennis – it’s about education, meeting up with friends and making new friends,” Goolagong Cawley said.
“The combination of tennis with culture can only make them stronger. I know that tennis made me more positive, more confident in myself, but when I learned about culture too… it made me even stronger. The combination is just unreal.”
Alongside the on-court action, Team SA players took part in cultural workshops, dance and music sessions, and enjoyed a special performance by acclaimed First Nations rapper Barkaa.
Tennis SA Tennis Development Manager Luke Doughty, who attended as Team SA Supervisor, said the carnival was an inspiring and rewarding experience.
“This was so much more than a tennis tournament – it was a celebration of culture, community and connection. I’m incredibly proud of how our team represented South Australia, showing skill, respect and genuine care for each other. Namallarri’s finals run and Jamain’s Deadly Award recognition were fantastic highlights, but every single player contributed to what was an unforgettable week.”
Tennis SA CEO Debbie Sterrey said the event was a valuable step in strengthening opportunities as part of Tennis SA’s broader strategic vision.
“Creating pathways that are inclusive and accessible for all South Australians is a core focus of our strategic plan. The National Indigenous Tennis Carnival not only provides elite competition, but also fosters connection to culture, which is vital in building confidence and community through tennis.”
“We are committed to providing more opportunities for our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion pathways – both on and off the court,” Sterrey said.
The NITC also crowned national champions across the singles events, with Team SA’s Namallarri Mckenzie defeating top-seeded opponents on her way to the 14-and-under girls’ final, before finishing runner-up to Hazel Wright (NSW).
The event concluded with the presentation of the Ash Barty Cup to Queensland, recognising the top overall team across all divisions.
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