Sunshine Coast Grammar School’s Tennis Program has once again been recognised as a powerhouse in Australian tennis. For the second consecutive year, the Program has been awarded Tennis Queensland’s Most Outstanding School – Excellence and the Coaching Excellence – Development Award. The Program has also triumphed with Year 11 student, Juliet Santitto being awarded the Anthony Richardson Regional Female of the Year Award.
Tennis Queensland annually acknowledges and honours individuals, clubs and schools that have made remarkable contributions to the tennis community in Queensland and recognised the award winners at the awards ceremony on the weekend.
Established five years ago, Grammar’s Tennis Program has shown an outstanding commitment to tennis which has seen their program excel and continue to grow year on year.
The Program has consistently displayed exceptional commitment, dedication and innovation in nurturing young tennis talent and promoting the sport within the school, establishing itself as one of the leading tennis programs in the country.
Tennis is entrenched throughout the Sunshine Coast Grammar School with over 250 players currently enrolled in weekly tennis lessons and all primary school students participating in a comprehensive HPE and School Sport tennis program. With the support of the Principal and staff, the School has an extensive tennis program, running lessons before, after, and during lunch times, with players supported as much as they need.
Sunshine Coast Grammar’s Tennis Director and Head Coach, Mr Clint Fyfe expressed great pride and gratitude for the recognition.
“We are honoured to receive this prestigious award from Tennis Queensland for the second consecutive year. It reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering a love of tennis and personal growth among our students,” said Mr Fyfe.
The Coaching Excellence – Development Award highlights the outstanding efforts of the Program’s coaching staff in providing comprehensive and effective tennis instruction and helping students reach their full potential on and off the court.
This accolade acknowledges the tireless work of Tennis Director and Head Coach, Mr Clint Fyfe and his dedication to developing young tennis players and instilling values of sportsmanship and perseverance.
“This Award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire coaching team. We are passionate about helping young athletes develop their skills and this recognition motivates us to continue supporting and encouraging our students,” said Mr Fyfe.
Mr Fyfe continuously develops his skills and knowledge through engaging in professional development opportunities such as recent trips to Europe and the USA to visit the world’s leading tennis academies. Numerous players from the Grammar Tennis program have won State and National titles in the last year including this year’s Anthony Richardson Regional Female of the Year Award winner, Juliet Santitto.
This year, Juliet led the Sunshine Coast Grammar School team to victory at the 2023 Queensland Schools Championships and captained the 2023 Queensland Pizzey Cup Secondary Schools Team.
“Juliet is a great role model in our coaching program, and I can see her success inspiring our other players to follow the same path”, said Head Coach, Mr Clint Fyfe.
Grammar Tennis is also thrilled to recognise Mrs Sandra Ferrier as a finalist in the Most Outstanding Teacher Category for the second consecutive year. Sunshine Coast Grammar School is grateful and fortunate for the wealth of knowledge, experience, and support Mr Fyfe and all tennis coaching staff provide our tennis players.