TENNIS lover Mitchell Job, 15, organised his first interclub tournament at the Laurieton Tennis Courts on Saturday, 30 November.

Mitchell participates in Tennis NSW Future Leaders, a program designed to engage, empower and inspire the next generation of leaders in the sport.

As a future leader, Mitchell was extended an invitation to participate in a series of webinars, online courses and workshop opportunities, equipping him with the necessary tools and knowledge to initiate change and foster growth within his local tennis community.

Taking this opportunity, Mitchell decided to collaborate with Laurieton tennis coach Quinn Sylow.

Together they identified a need to improve collaboration between local tennis clubs.

“After having a discussion with Quinn, we brainstormed a few ideas about what area would be best to address,” said Mitchell.

“I then narrowed my focus, with the idea of forming an interclub day, with the intention of strengthening the social connection between tennis clubs within the Port Macquarie-Hastings River community.”

Saturday’s event was a doubles tournament featuring two teams of four players – one team from Laurieton and the other from Kendall.

Quinn commended Mitchell’s initiative, praising his efforts to grow a sense of community and break down competitive barriers.

“Today’s interclub event was great,” said Quinn.

“Mitchell wanted to bring the community together, showing that clubs can work with each other, without rivalry or conflict, and he did exactly that.”

Mitchell envisions expanding his initiative into an annual event that strengthens bonds within the tennis community and attracts new players, particularly from a younger demographic.

“I was really happy with how today went,” said Mitchell.

“This event was a great opportunity to play with and against different players and everyone enjoyed themselves.”

Kendall tennis coach Wendy Hudson emphasised the crucial role of programs like FLP in shaping the next generation of tennis leaders.

“Over the years we have had several young players involved in this program,” said Wendy.

“It is a great introduction to coaching courses and traineeships that are available through Tennis Australia.

“These initiatives provide young athletes like Mitchell the skillset needed to propel them towards a successful future both in tennis and beyond.”

By Kim AMBROSE