The summer of tennis started in Foster on the 14th of December with a wonderful tennis event, the “SGTA Foster Fun Slam”, that brought a warm, fun and family atmosphere to the Foster Tennis Club.
This was an inclusive, all levels (from beginners to advanced) tennis tournament that was run by South Gippsland Tennis Academy (SGTA) head coaches: Matt “Pocko” Pocklington and Ricardo Iniesta. Despite the weather forecast and the actual weather on the day, the tournament was remarkably well attended by over 45 players from Yarram, Foster and surrounds.
It was a round robin format allowing all competitors to play against multiple different opponents. There were a number of fun tiny tot events which were supported by parents and more experienced players. A parent and child doubles tournament was also held in fine spirits with the winners being Leongatha’s Shane and Riley Collier.
The open doubles came down to a close tie break finish with Fish Creek’s Keith Straw and Foster’s Dr Owen Casson triumphing over Foster’s doctor duo Drs Meg Gallagher and James O’Sullivan! The high performance singles competition saw some good quality tennis on display showing off some of the incredible talent from South Gippsland Tennis Academy. Junior tennis player Declan Russell came up on top after the round robin event.
The tournament was a great success and result of an amazing collaboration between the Foster Tennis Club committee members and South Gippsland Tennis Academy, which runs private tennis lessons and squads at the Foster Tennis Club since Term 2 in 2025. These have been welcomed by the tennis community in Foster and have been well attended by students as young as six up to adults participating in Cardio-Tennis.
Lessons and squads will start running again from Term 1 starting on 3rd February 2026-– contact coach Ricardo Iniesta (0417 778 455) for any information about the programs or to register for the upcoming Term.
The Foster Tennis Club committee would like to thank all the volunteers, players and families who helped support this event. A big thank you also to the following Local Businesses and Community groups: Aherns, Prom Coast Meats, South Gippsland Water, Toora Heritage Pear Orchard, Toora Lions, Foster Football and Netball Club and the Toora Football and Netball club.
The event helped raise $ 590 to improve the facilities at the Foster Tennis Club that are in much need of attention.
If you are interested in having a hit of tennis, please come along to our social hits on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights. A casual teams double competition will also start running during Term 1 that will be open to all ages and genders. Further details will be made available over the coming weeks.
Tennis is one of the most beneficial sports you can play for lifelong health. It strengthens your body, sharpens your mind, boosts your mood, and keeps you socially connected — all of which contribute to a longer, happier life.
If you’re thinking about making tennis part of your routine, it’s one of the smartest investments you can make in your long‑term well‑being. If you would like more information, please contact the club via email: foster.tennis@yahoo.com.au, otherwise, jump on the court and join us for a hit.
