
When Michelle first picked up a tennis racquet, she wasn’t sure what to expect. It was her support worker Cindy who encouraged her to give blind and low-vision tennis a try.
From the very first hit, Michelle found herself loving the feel of the game. She enjoyed moving around the court, hearing the specially designed ball, and connecting with others who shared her interest in sport. Tennis quickly became more than just an activity; it became a source of joy, confidence, and connection.
Today, Michelle is part of an interstate Blind/Low Vision Tennis team, where she enjoys the camaraderie and encouragement of her teammates. She says the friendships she has made through tennis are one of her favourite parts of playing, alongside the excitement of competition and the sense of achievement she feels each time she steps on the court.
Michelle’s dedication has already led to significant achievements. She has played in four tournaments so far, bringing home three medals and a trophy. Each competition has given her the chance to grow in skill, confidence, and independence, and she is always keen to get back on the court for the next challenge.
Michelle’s next adventure is just around the corner. On 11 July, she will be travelling to
Melbourne to compete in the National Blind and Low Vision Tennis Championships, representing her team and community with pride. This three-day tournament will bring together players from across Australia, and Michelle is looking forward to testing her skills and meeting other players who share her love for the sport.
In recognition of Michelle’s commitment, Tennis Australia is sponsoring her accommodation and airfares to attend the Nationals.
Beyond the medals and trophies, tennis has given Michelle a sense of confidence and community. It has become a part of her routine, helping her stay active while doing something she genuinely loves. Her journey is a reminder that with the right support, encouragement, and opportunities, people can discover new interests that transform their lives.
We are incredibly proud of Michelle’s achievements and the way she approaches each challenge with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. We will be cheering her on as she heads to Melbourne for Nationals and can’t wait to hear all about her experience on the court.
Best of luck, Michelle! Your determination and joy inspire us all.