Darren Ha, Head Coach of DHA Tennis Academy, is making a meaningful impact both on and off the court, earning recognition as this month’s Community Champion.

At the heart of Darren’s work is a genuine passion for creating positive and engaging experiences through tennis. This was recently on display when he generously volunteered his time to deliver a free after-school tennis session for staff at a local school, St Albans East Primary School. The session was not only fun and well-organised, but also fostered an inclusive and welcoming environment, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Darren’s commitment to community goes far beyond a single session. Over time, he and the DHA Tennis Academy team have built a strong relationship with the school, consistently finding ways to give back. From contributing donations to support a school fun run, to creating opportunities for students to experience tennis in an interactive and enjoyable way, Darren continues to demonstrate what true community engagement looks like. These experiences have been highly valued, helping to introduce more young people to the sport in a positive and accessible environment.

On court, Darren’s expertise is equally impressive. Holding qualifications as a Tennis Australia Junior Development Coach and Certificate III in Sport Coaching, along with recognition as an Australasian Academy of Coaches Level 2 Club Professional Coach and ATPCA Graduate Pro, he brings a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to his role. His own playing background includes competing at national and international tournaments, as well as at the highest level of the NSJTA, giving him firsthand experience that he now passes on to his players.

Today, Darren continues to coach nationally ranked players, while also ensuring that tennis remains inclusive and enjoyable for participants of all ages and abilities. His ability to balance high-performance coaching with grassroots community involvement is a testament to his dedication to the sport.

Whether he’s developing the next generation of players, supporting local schools, or simply creating opportunities for people to connect through tennis, Darren Ha embodies the spirit of a true community champion.