South Australia proudly celebrated an inspiring night of achievements at the 2025 Newcombe Medal, Australian Tennis Awards, with the state represented by seven exceptional finalists across a range of categories. Topping off a memorable evening, South Australian tennis claimed two prestigious national awards, highlighting the strength, dedication and impact of the sport across the state.
Maitland Lutheran School was honoured with the Most Outstanding School Award, recognising their long-standing commitment to tennis and youth development. Located on South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula, Maitland Lutheran School is a Foundation to Year 12 school with 484 students, and has integrated tennis into its physical education curriculum for more than 20 years. The award celebrates the school’s significant contribution to promoting tennis participation and fostering a love of the sport among young people in regional South Australia.
South Australia’s second accolade came through the Memorial Drive Tennis Club Open Championships, which claimed the Most Outstanding Tournament Award. Now in its third year, the Memorial Drive Tennis Club (MDTC) Open Championships have rapidly established themselves as one of the state’s premier tennis events, blending high performance competition with strong community engagement. The 2025 tournament achieved record participation, attracting 150 player entries and introducing a full qualifying draw for the first time – further testament to the event’s growing reputation for professionalism, inclusiveness, and exceptional tournament delivery.
Tennis SA CEO Debbie Sterrey said she was thrilled to see South Australian tennis so strongly represented on the national stage.
“We are incredibly proud to have seven outstanding South Australians recognised as finalists this year, showcasing the depth of passion, talent and leadership that exists within our tennis community,
“To see Maitland Lutheran School and the Memorial Drive Tennis Club Open Championships take home national honours is truly special. These awards are a reflection of their dedication, innovation and commitment to growing the sport,
“On behalf of Tennis SA, I congratulate all of our finalists and warmly celebrate our winners on this fantastic achievement ” said Sterrey.
South Australia’s presence at the 2025 Newcombe Medal once again highlights the state’s continued growth and national impact, driven by thriving programs, exceptional volunteers, and a community committed to shaping the next generation of players and leaders.
The 2025 Newcombe Medal, Australian Tennis Award winners:
Coaching Excellence – Club
- Owen Peemoeller (ACT)
Most Outstanding School
- Maitland Lutheran School (SA)
Junior Athlete of the Year – Male
- Cruz Hewitt (NSW)
Junior Athlete of the Year – Female
- Emerson Jones (Qld)
Coaching Excellence – Development
- Des Tyson (Vic)
Excellence in Officiating
- Phillip Goodman (Vic)
Volunteer Achievement Award
- Kirsty Cole (NSW)
Most Outstanding Athlete with a Disability, presented by ANZ
- Hunter Thompson (Qld)
- Jin Woodman (Vic)
Most Outstanding Tournament
- MDTC Open Championships (SA)
Most Outstanding Club, presented by Howden
- Oakleigh Tennis Club (Vic)
Most Outstanding 35+ Tennis Master
- Ros Balodis (ACT)
Coaching Excellence – Performance, presented by Culture Amp
- Chris Mahony (Qld)
Most Outstanding Inclusion Initiative
- Hobart Out Tennis Club (Tas)
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