Thanks to the ANZ Tennis Hot Shots Community Play program, youngsters from Shepparton North Tennis Club headed down the Hume Hwy to catch the maestros and doyennes of the international game in action on January 23.
Upon arrival, North’s group were greeted by five-time Australian Open quad singles champion and ANZ tennis ambassador Dylan Alcott at Melbourne Park, before settling in to feast their eyes on some sumptuous match play.
Shepparton North was one of 10 clubs fortunate enough to be chosen to participate in the program, with ground passes and travel costs all paid for the children in attendance.
Tennis Australia chief executive and tournament director Craig Tiley said the program was centred on giving children based in regional areas a chance to experience the electric atmosphere of the Open.
“We are delighted that we are able to welcome some of our ANZ Tennis Hot Shots clubs to Melbourne Park,” Tiley said.
“We are proud of the work these clubs do in their local communities to encourage more kids to pick up a racquet and play ANZ Tennis Hot Shots and we know they will enjoy their experience at the 2020 Australian Open.”
ANZ managing director of retail banking Katherine Bray made note of the impact of the program, and the ideology of involving those who may not have the chance to witness top-flight tennis in order to strengthen the sport’s fan base across the nation.
“We’re proud to continue supporting regional tennis clubs through the ANZ Tennis Hot Shots program and to grow the sport at a grassroots level,” she said.
“These clubs have shown great dedication to the sport and we’re thrilled to be able to invite them to enjoy the 2020 Australian Open.”