More than 230 First Nations youth from across the country descended on Larrakia Country over the weekend to participate in the annual National Indigenous Tennis Carnival.
Kids from across the country represented their states and territories which saw First Nations youth in fierce but fun competition, including a large representation from remote NT communities including Canteen Creek, Groote Eylandt, Tiwi Islands, Lajamanu (WANTA), Jabiru, Arlparra, Palmerston, Alice Springs and Woolianna.
Now in its third year, the annual carnival wrapped up yesterday with tennis legend and Wiradjuri woman Evonne Goolagong Cawley in attendance to present the winning participant with their trophies.
The championship finals saw Isaac King (Qld) defeat Quincy Kahn (NSW) in the 18-and-under boys’ championship, Amali Zillmann (Qld) defeat Keeral McKenzie (NSW) in the 18-and-under girls’ and Lewis Murray (Vic) defeat Lola Grigor (Vic) in the 14-and-under mixed competition.
Team from Tiwi Islands - for most of the kids, this was the first time leaving the Islands (Source: Tennis Australia)
The South Australian team claimed the coveted Ash Barty Cup for their participation and effort.
15-year-old Zillman from the Gold Coast was also recognised for her outstanding leadership on and off the court with the Evonne Goolagong Cawley Medal of Excellence.
Reflecting on the award, she thanked her opponent from NSW for a tough match, and said that the experience and award hadn’t sunk in yet.
“I’m over the moon,” Zillmann said.
“I have enjoyed the activities so much, just seeing the culture here and hearing Evonne speak, it was just so inspiring. It was amazing to have Evonne here watching, it was so cool.”
Team SA take out the Ash Barty Cup
Building the next Barty
Pathways into tennis haven’t necessarily been as readily available to First Nations youth as other sporting codes.
It makes the achievements of Blak superstars like Goolagong Cawley and Ash Barty all the more legendary, and inspiring.
Mooloolaba's Isaac King payed an emotional homage to his idols while accepting his medal, including Evonne, her husband Roger Cawley, and coach Anzac Leidg.
“For me, this means more than winning a grand slam. Seeing three of my role models sitting watching me… just brings me to tears ever time,” King said.
“It’s an absolute privilege to be here at this event. Growing up, I didn’t think this was ever a possibility. It’s allowed me to connect with my culture. Most of my Elders have passed away, so being able to learn anything off anyone is a privilege.”
Team WA during cultural handover
“The National Indigenous Tennis Carnival is the pinnacle of a lot of pathways with states and territories having their lead in events to come to the NITC… this really is the start of a fantastic journey for them all.”
In another exciting announcement made during the closing ceremonies, eight First Nations youth from the Carnival have been selected to be part of the Australian Open 2023 Ballkid Squad, with all expenses covered.
