Tennis Australia – Kids Tennis Day

Written by: Staff on 16th January 2011

Tennis Australia - Kids Tennis Day |

Tennis Australia’s Kids Tennis Day attracted close to 8,000 tennis fans to Melbourne Park this morning, including children of all ages who had the unique opportunity to play tennis on the same courts as their Australian Open heroes.

“The children loved having a hit on the courts,” said Allison Goldie of Upper Ferntree Gully, whose son Joel, 9, participated in the activities. “It has been a really fantastic day, we’ve loved it.”

Australian favourite and former world No. 8, Alicia Molik, was among the top tennis players having a hit with the children.

“The motivation behind Kids Tennis Day was all about giving kids a great tennis experience and having fun,” Tennis Australia’s Director of Tennis Craig Tiley said today.

“We wanted to put a racquet in the hand of every child in attendance and ensure they had fun – and they certainly did!

“The reaction we’ve had from the kids and their families has been tremendous.

“We had over 2,000 children registered to attend today, and ended up with a crowd of close to 8,000.

“It was fantastic to see so many kids here enjoying the chance to play on the same courts as the best players in the world. “

Former French tennis star Henri Leconte revealed his comic-side as he graced Show Court 3 in a pink feather boa and hula skirt for the “Making a Racquet” exhibition tennis match.

“The French guy is my favourite player, he was funny that’s why I like him,” six-year-old Tristan Lindner of Melton said.

Australian players Peter Luczak, Alicia Molik, Anastasia Rodionova, Nicole Bradtke and 1987 Wimbledon champion Pat Cash were among the other players in the exhibition, which also included children from the crowd.

Modified equipment such as low compression balls and smaller racquets were used during the on court activities to help children have an immediate sense of fun and achievement.

Whilst at Kids Tennis Day, children also had the unique opportunity to feel like a Grand Slam® champion as they enjoyed their very own photo with Australian Open Trophies. The Kids Craft Tent, Fan Zone, Autograph Island and the Stringer’s Hut were some of the other attractions.

Dance troop and winners of Australia’s Got Talent, Justice Crew, were also in attendance to entertain the crowd with their athletic dance moves.

The Australian Open qualifying rounds coincided with Kids Tennis Day, so attendees were additionally treated to world-class tennis action this morning.

Topics: Melbourne, Tennis Australia’s Kids Tennis Day