By Parker McKenzie
Ferntree Gully Tennis Club’s All Abilities tennis program, launched with the support of Tennis Vic, Vic Sport and Knox City Council, has seen a strong response from the community.
Coach Jake Mutton said he started the program in May 2021 with five participants.
“Now it’s up to just over 60. That’s including juniors, adults, the All Abilities program that was started and private lessons as well,” he said.
“Having the success of Ash Barty and the boys in the doubles, I think everyone’s just seeing the tennis and wanted to give it a go.”
The program offers a fun and inclusive program to encourage participants to learn to play tennis, make new friends and integrate into a sporting club.
Mr Mutton said anyone wanting to give the game a go can have a free trial, with people of all abilities, age and skill welcome.
Especially people who don’t feel like they’ve been able to be included for a lot of sports, it’s definitely a great social atmosphere,” he said.
“It’s definitely been a great thing for them and then we’ve had so much positive feedback already.”
Weekly all abilities tennis programs are held at the tennis club, located at 2A Glenfern Road, on Thursdays from 5.15pm to 6.15pm.
The club is currently building two new hard courts, which will “look like the Australian Open courts” when completed.
“Tennis is definitely a sport for life,” Mr Mutton said.
“Some people in our club are in their 60s or 70s that are still playing and I even know one lady who finished up recently at 87.”
Participants in the all abilities program receive free equipment packs with T-shirts and a cap, with anyone who hasn’t played before receiving a racquet to play with.
More information can be found at www.play.tennis.com.au/ferntreegullytennisclub/Lessons
