The spirit of inclusion and excellence was on full display at the State Tennis Centre, as Tennis West proudly hosted the first-ever Wheelchair and Para Standing WA Singles Event – marking a significant milestone for inclusive tennis in Western Australia.
With 25 competitors, 38 fiercely contested matches, 8 ballkids, 10 dedicated volunteers and staff, and a staggering 200 sandwiches consumed, the weekend was a celebration of community, courage and competition.
Competitors travelled from across the country to be part of the historic event, which showcased both wheelchair and para standing singles divisions, as well as the crowd-favourite ‘Roll and Run’ adaptive doubles format, pairing athletes across both categories for a unique and exhilarating on-court experience.
Travelling Para Standing athlete Marita Morgan praised the organisers for a successful event. Marita was one of many that travelled from New South Wales.
“It was fantastic to be part of Perth’s inaugural para standing and wheelchair tennis tournament. It was an amazing experience! The ‘roll and run’ adaptive doubles offered a perfect blend of competitive and inclusive fun, and it was fantastic to see the wheelchair and para standing singles as a showcase of tennis for all.”
“Tennis West deserves immense credit for running a wonderful event, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!”
The Adaptive Doubles ‘Roll and Run’ Competition also saw special guest athletes Jason Kubler and Maddison Inglis (world number 151) join in with Maddison playing with her sister Georgia.
The singles finals brought high-level tennis and plenty of emotion, with Wayne Arnott taking out the wheelchair title over fellow local Georgia Inglis, and Brett Hellier claiming the para standing division ahead of promising talent Finn Beck-Veldman.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Tennis West’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lead, Sara Mohamed, commended all players for coming out and competing.
“Tennis West’s Inaugural Wheelchair and Para Standing event brought the energy, fun and smiles to the State Tennis Centre. Spectators and players alike were treated to some amazing tennis in an adaptive doubles format that worked brilliantly.”
“Thanks to the traveling players, Dwayne Augustin and Brad Ladyman for their time and hard work to make this a truly memorable experience for all.” Said Sara.
Congratulations to all players, officials, supporters and volunteers who made this incredible event possible.
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