The Victorian Community Tennis Awards recognise Victoria’s on and off court success in a community tennis celebration. Congratulations to the following three finalists for the Most Outstanding Inclusion Initiative award!
Doncaster Tennis Club
Doncaster Tennis Club’s Advantage Autism Program provides inclusive, supportive tennis opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum. In partnership with Bulleen Heights Autism Spectrum School, the program removes barriers by delivering fully booked weekly sessions onsite and offering sensory-aware environments across various venues. Coaching is tailored with visual aids, structured routines, and communication supports to help improve social skills, motor development, and emotional regulation.
Participants engage in a range of offerings—from Hot Shots and private lessons to PWII tournaments and social skills groups—fostering confidence, independence, and community connection. Club initiatives also include open days, companion memberships, and accessible casual court hire. Coach Caitlin Belcher, a neurodivergent leader and role model, plays a vital role in mentoring players and promoting inclusive coaching. The program continues to grow through strong partnerships with NDIS plan managers, Special Olympics, and Tennis Victoria, setting a benchmark for inclusive sport.
East Coburg Tennis Club
The Australasian Academy of Tennis Coaches (AATC) International Coaching Pathway & Inclusion Program has placed 90 Indian coaches across Australia, including at East Coburg Tennis Club, providing life-changing opportunities for underrepresented talent. The program offers AATC certification, visa support, and career advancement through mentorship and training, empowering coaches to take on leadership roles and increase diversity within tennis.
By focusing on underserved areas, the program expands youth and women’s participation and introduces tennis to new communities. Coaches receive ongoing support and professional development, ensuring sustainable career pathways. This initiative not only strengthens the local tennis ecosystem but also creates new coaching opportunities, enhancing community engagement.
AATC’s global promotion of the program amplifies its impact, inspiring future participants and reinforcing the program’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and accessible tennis worldwide. Through the efforts of the program, East Coburg Tennis Club and other local clubs benefit from a more inclusive and diverse coaching environment.
Sale Tennis Club
Sale Tennis Club has embraced over 80 Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) workers from countries including Kiribati, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, and Vanuatu by providing ongoing access to tennis and community connection. Recognising the workers’ limited recreational opportunities and social isolation while away from home, the Club initiated regular tennis activities supported by volunteers with many of the workers trying tennis for the first time.
To ensure continued access, the Club has supplied racquets, balls, drink bottles, and a dedicated locker so workers can play anytime, with Sundays proving most popular. Communication support was key, with visits to workers’ meetings, word-of-mouth via team leaders, and visual posters featuring country flags helping to overcome language barriers.
Local community champions Don and Meg were instrumental in building trust and engagement. A highlight of the program was a Christmas celebration that included social tennis, a traditional lunch, and hampers for over 60 workers, ensuring no one missed the festive spirit.
The program is not about talent pathways, but about providing a meaningful, inclusive outlet for PALM workers to feel welcome, stay active, and build connections during their time in Sale.
Congratulations, once again to the three finalists who have been selected as finalists for this award.
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