Warwick and District Tennis Association receives grant to continue low-cost program

This community group had been serving up low-cost tennis to the community and a new helping hand means they can continue to keep Warwick residents courtside.

Sheryl Windle, Maggie Stevens, Nathan Costello, Charlotte Stevens and Marco Gliori celebrate Warwick and District Tennis Association's grant.

Members of the Warwick and District Tennis Association are serving up smiles after learning their club has received a $2500 grant helping them offer their ace program to the community.

The grant, which was funded through the Australian Government's Drought Community Program and allocated by Southern Downs Regional Council, has also allowed the tennis group to purchase equipment.

President Nathan Costello said the grants ensured the sport remained accessible to everyone.

“We rely on those council grants to keep our membership free so we can offer tennis to all levels of the community and not make finances such a burden.”

“It also gives us the equipment for us to run programs for children.”

Charlotte Stevens (9) and Maggie Stevens (6) put their tennis skills to the test (Photo: Zilla Gordon).

Costello said it was great to see the younger community members embrace the sport.

“Warwick District Tennis Association’s Community Play program has been in full swing for over a year now with a new community coach, Matt Strom,” he said.

“We have had a steady increase in numbers and now having over 50 students participating in our junior programs.

“Term 1 this year saw the introduction of junior fixtures, which is a format where students get to play actual games of tennis versing an opponent, on modified courts.”

The club has scooped up a range of new balls, pick up tubes, and a laptop and iPad to manoeuvre COVID check-in requirements.

Southern Downs Councillor Sheryl Windle said it was hoped these grants would boost the local economy with all the new tennis gear bought locally.

“Where possible, all the equipment was sourced from local businesses,” Cr Windle said.

“These grants are about allowing clubs to maintain their facilities for future generations.”

Councillor Sheryl Windle, Maggie Stevens, Nathan Costello, Charlotte Stevens and Councillor Marco Gliori celebrate the Warwick and District Tennis Association’s grant.

Term 3 registrations are now open, with coaching on Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings from July 15.

Those keen to improve their tennis skills can find out more at the Warwick and District Association Facebook page.