07/01/2026
2025 IN REVIEW
The year 2025 was a positive one for the Association, with tennis participation and court hire remaining steady throughout the year.
Pickleball continued its rapid rise in popularity, resulting in a significant increase in both participation and court usage. Courts 9, 10, and 11 are now predominantly used by pickleball players on most days of the week.
To accommodate the increased demand for these courts, the Association undertook repair works on all three courts, and they have now been double marked for both tennis and pickleball. Early feedback indicates that the new surfaces on Courts 9 and 11 are performing well and have enhanced overall playing enjoyment. If you have not yet had the opportunity to try these courts, we encourage you to do so.
Our two most promising juniors, Julian and Edmund Libert, along with their parents, relocated to the Rafael Nadal Tennis Academy in Spain for a 12 month period. The boys have already competed in two Ten Pro Global Junior tournaments at the academy, with Edmund defeating Julian in the finals of both events. According to Hongge, both boys have settled in well and are progressing rapidly. We wish them every success in this exceptional developmental opportunity.
With the Liberts’ support prior to their departure, the Association was able to field exceptionally strong Interdistrict teams in 2025. We secured three age group Cups—16 and Under Boys, 14 and Under Boys, and 12 and Under Boys—the highest number the Association has ever won in a single year. We extend our sincere thanks to all players who represented the Association and look forward to welcoming them back this year.
The Association was also fortunate to have Ethan Wang represent us in the 14 and Under team. Ethan had an outstanding year, representing Australia in numerous international events. In June and July, he competed in 12 and Under tournaments in the Netherlands and Germany, winning two singles titles and one doubles title, and reaching an additional singles final. In October, he was part of the Australian 12 and Under team that won the ATF Intercontinental Team Championships in Kazakhstan. Shortly before Christmas, he returned from the United States after reaching the quarterfinals of the Orange Bowl Cup. As a result of his exceptional performances throughout the year, Ethan is now ranked No. 1 in NSW, No. 2 in Australia, and holds international rankings of 19 in singles and 14 in doubles.
The Association looks forward to 2026 being another successful year for both tennis and pickleball at our Centre, with continued growth in participation across both sports. We encourage all members of our community to continue using and supporting the Centre, as it is your involvement that enables us to operate and serve the community effectively.
