At just 14 years old, R\u00e9mi is already making an impact both on and off the tennis court. A passionate athlete competing in mainstream and Para-standing tennis pathways, Australian Open Ballkid squad member, and emerging young leader, R\u00e9mi recently spent a week undertaking work experience with Tennis Victoria’s Inclusion team, gaining valuable insights into how tennis can create opportunities for everyone.<\/p>\n
Since first picking up a racquet on the Australian Open Hot Shots courts in 2018, tennis has played a pivotal role in shaping his life. Inspired after watching Rafael Nadal compete at Rod Laver Arena, R\u00e9mi began his tennis journey at Boroondara Tennis Centre (BTC), where coaches and staff embraced an inclusive approach from the very beginning.<\/p>\n
“The BTC family gave me a way to be included in a sport I love, irrespective of disability,” R\u00e9mi said.<\/p>\n
That early support helped him develop not only as a player, but also as a person. Through mainstream junior squads, tournaments, camps and private coaching, he has built skills, confidence, resilience and lifelong connections through the game.<\/p>\n
Today, R\u00e9mi competes in both mainstream and Para-standing tennis pathways and has achieved remarkable success on court. Among his proudest achievements are winning the 2024 Queensland Para-standing Open Division 1 Singles and Open Doubles titles, as well as multiple Oceania Para-standing Open championships against experienced international competitors.<\/p>\n
Outside of playing, he is equally proud of his involvement in the Australian Open Ballkids program, where his keen enthusiasm and knowledge of the sport have earned him the nickname “Tennis Guru”.<\/p>\n
During his recent work experience placement, R\u00e9mi joined Tennis Victoria’s Inclusion team to gain a deeper understanding of the work that happens behind the scenes to make tennis more accessible and welcoming.<\/p>\n
Throughout the week, he contributed to a range of projects and activities, including Accessibility and Inclusion Profiles, attending Diversity, Equity and Inclusion workshops, supporting Pennant Pride Round, and observing coaching sessions with athletes from the Blind and Low Vision Tennis pathway.<\/p>\n
The experience provided valuable insight into the diverse range of roles that help grow participation and engagement across the sport.<\/p>\n
“There are different roles in the team who come together to help make tennis happen, whether coaching, tournaments, media requirements, community engagement or new initiatives to promote visibility around Inclusion Tennis,” he said.<\/p>\n
One of the highlights of the week was supporting the Pennant Pride Round at Royal Park Tennis Club, where he enjoyed learning about tournament operations while connecting with players and the wider tennis community.<\/p>\n
R\u00e9mi also took ownership of a week-long project focused on enhancing digital Expression of Interest (EOI) processes for Inclusion Tennis enquiries.<\/p>\n
“For learning efficacy, the EOI project I was given throughout the week was a standout,” he said. “Hopefully it contributes in a small way to help the Inclusion Team with one of their long-term projects.”<\/p>\n
As someone who has experienced first-hand the benefits of inclusive opportunities, R\u00e9mi is passionate about ensuring young people with disability can see a place for themselves in tennis.<\/p>\n
He believes participation in the sport can have a transformative impact on an individual’s confidence, wellbeing and sense of belonging.<\/p>\n
“Providing opportunities for young people with disability to engage with tennis in any way can transform lives,” he said.<\/p>\n
“From improving self-esteem, health and wellbeing to helping people feel valued and connected, tennis has the power to create positive change.”<\/p>\n
His vision extends beyond participation opportunities. R\u00e9mi hopes to see continued investment in Para-standing Tennis, greater visibility for inclusion pathways at mainstream events, and expanded opportunities for young people to have a voice in shaping the future of the game.<\/p>\n
He also believes initiatives that bring people together, regardless of disability or background, are essential.<\/p>\n
“Tennis Australia and Tennis Victoria are world leaders in tennis initiatives, including creating pathways that integrate All Abilities Ballkids into the main Australian Open Ballkids squad,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Ultimately, success comes from everyone working together as a team.”<\/p>\n
R\u00e9mi’s ambitions for the future are as impressive as his achievements to date.<\/p>\n
Alongside his tennis goals, he hopes to continue advocating for inclusion in sport and education, pursue leadership opportunities and support the continued growth of Para-standing Tennis on the international stage.<\/p>\n
His dream? To one day see Para-standing Tennis fully recognised at the highest levels of the sport and, like many tennis players, experience the magic of Wimbledon.<\/p>\n
As Tennis Victoria continues to create opportunities for all Victorians to participate in tennis, R\u00e9mi’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that inclusion, community and opportunity can have on a young person’s life.<\/p>\n
Through his passion, leadership and commitment to creating positive change, R\u00e9mi is helping to shape a more inclusive future for our sport.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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