Building a strong First Nations tennis in SA

From their first rally to the national stage and beyond – our mission is to create tennis that brings communities together, celebrates culture and fosters a lifelong passion for tennis. Through our collaboration with local South Australian clubs, we deliver programs and initiatives that encourage grassroots participation while empowering competitive players to continue their journey toward elite level tennis.

Our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan – applying the four core principles of relationships, respect, opportunities and governance – outlines our commitment to making tennis accessible to all.

We host our First Nations Come and Try programs at local clubs such as Playford Tennis Club and Port Augusta – inviting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children to discover tennis in a fun, inclusive setting. Through social play that builds confidence and connection, we offer young players aged 5-17 free access to professional coaching and facilities that inspire them to continue playing.

Our seven‑week coaching program provides school‑aged First Nations children with a structured learning environment that equips them with a strong foundation in tennis.

The SA National Indigenous Tennis Carnival serves as an inspiring celebration of tennis and culture. It creates a meaningful pathway for local players by providing competitive play opportunities that help sharpen their skills and prepare them to progress to the National Indigenous Tennis Carnival in Darwin.

It also opens the door for local kids to discover the joy of tennis through engaging tennis clinics and rich cultural experiences – helping them connect with the sport, their community and their culture.

Held annually on Larrakia Country in Darwin, the National Indigenous Tennis Carnival brings together First Nations players aged 12–18 from all over the country.

Throughout the event, every match contributes points toward each state or territory’s total, with the top‑scoring team awarded the prestigious Ash Barty Cup.

Individual athletes also have the chance to compete in the Showdown stream – where the best emerging talents face off – and one standout player is handpicked by Evonne Goolagong Cawley herself to receive the Evonne Goolagong Cawley Medal of Excellence.

Alongside the on‑court action, participants take part in cultural activities, workshops and performances, creating meaningful opportunities for mentoring, connection and shared learning.