By Simone Wearne
Situated in a picturesque location surrounded by lush greenery in the South-Eastern suburbs, the Beaconsfield Tennis Club offers more than just a place to play tennis, rather a place to connect, to share a love of sport and to embrace a sense of community.
Affectionately known as Beacy Tennis Club, the location itself presents somewhat of a sanctuary for its members, a getaway of sorts from the hustle and bustle of an often busy Melbourne lifestyle.
Only 40 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, Beacy treats players to an immersive experience that goes far beyond just the sport of tennis itself. Providing participation for all ages and skill levels, Beacy’s youngest member is 2, and oldest is in their 80’s.
The club is focused on community, inclusiveness and participation. Although there is certainly a community feel at the club with a welcoming environment for social players, there is also encouragement for players to participate in tournaments and competitions, though that is not the highest priority.
Established back in the 1960’s, the club has gone through its share of challenges. With facilities requiring a rebuild after the Ash Wednesday bushfires in 1983, all records were lost and the club faced the prospect of having to recreate what they had spent years putting in place.
However, what has always remained at Beacy is the sense of community and supportive atmosphere. When asked to describe their club in three words, club representatives used the words ‘inclusive, community and friendly’.
Upon entering the club you can expect to see the table tennis table that brings members together off the tennis court for a bit of fun, or kids toys that are always in use while parents have a social hit of tennis.
Adding to the appeal of the club is the highly respected tennis coaching program available, which is led by pro Paul Osborne (Ossie’s Tennis Coaching). Ossie’s relationship with the tennis club has blossomed over many years, particularly as the club looked to regroup coming out of Covid.
Like any community club, Beacy have some great sponsors that help them get players on the court. Bendigo Bank, Peake Real Estate, The Central Hotel in Beaconsfield and Brad Battin – Liberal State Member of Parliament for Berwick are great supporters of the club and have been for some time.
There are a variety of sponsorship opportunities available for potential sponsors to jump on board, a chance for community organisations to get on board and support a family friendly club that is playing a huge role in the local area.
For new players, Beacy is more than just a tennis club. A hub for community engagement and social connection, whether you’re looking to improve your tennis skills, learn something new or spend time with friends staying active, this is the place for you.
Where country meets city, Beacy not only provide opportunities to play tennis, there are other activities and events to get involved in. Annual events off the tennis court such as trivia nights and social gatherings mean members can get together and socialise whilst leaving tennis racquets at home.
Further to that, there are great opportunities to get involved as a volunteer. Like other grassroots clubs, Beacy is heavily reliant on its volunteer workforce who put in many hours to keep the club going.
Whilst there are too many to list, some volunteers of note include Maurie and Anja Potter. They have been on the club committee for many years and are both life members. They also assist in running the Wednesday night social competition. Adrian Walsh is another quiet achiever, a life member and past President who has delivered for many Social function @ the club years on the committee and
assists in keeping facilities in good condition.
Another person who deserves recognition is Alizeh Bhojani, who was recently awarded the ‘Junior Club Person’ award. Alizeh is a member at Beacy, but outside of her playing commitments provides support to those around her, including volunteers to
assist in the canteen, as well as completing pack up and lock up. Some amazing efforts on and off the court across the course of the last 12 months.
So if you’re looking to get involved in local sport, participate in a new and inclusive environment that allows you to immerse yourself in the beaty of nature whilst staying active and connected, look no further than Beacy Tennis Club.
The club is looking for new members, sponsors and of course, volunteers. If you want to find out more, please check out their website for details or reach out via the email address below:
Website: www.beaconsfieldtennisclubinc.com
Comments