Hard work certainly paid dividends when Total Tennis Mount Hutton served up a winner at the recent Tennis NSW Awards.
The Hunter-based organisation, which almost folded five years ago, was named the Most Outstanding Tennis Club or Venue – Country, sharing the honours with Bonny Hills.
The event, conducted “virtually” in 2021, recognises clubs, organisations and individuals in the NSW tennis community, aligning with the national Newcombe Medal, Australian Tennis Awards.
You’re also in good company when Alex de Minaur takes out the NSW Player of the Year honour.
So, you could imagine the delight of Total Tennis Mount Hutton head coach/owner Matt Abbott.
“My reaction on the night was ecstatic,” he said.
“We had a bit of a barbecue and get-together at the club to watch the ceremony ‘live’.
“I, personally, was lost for words initially.
“But, there were a lot of thrilled and proud club members that’s for sure, including myself.
“To be honest, it’s the greatest honour an organisation like Mount Hutton can win.
“We’ve gone from the brink of closure, under previous management, to now being the most outstanding country club in NSW.
“It’s a sensational feeling.
“However, it’s also a huge win for our whole club community.
“I’d just like to thank every person for their contribution, whether it’s kids, players, parents, coaches, sponsors, members or casual hirers.
“We have created an authentic community that is welcoming and accepting to all.
“And, that’s primarily because of the wonderful people who’ve come together here.”
Abbott said he believed there were a few key factors behind Total Tennis Mount Hutton’s triumph.
“We’re currently constructing a $40,000 Hot Shots Mini Court at the facility, which is due to be finished next week,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“We’ve had a steady rise in all program participation, even with pandemic influence.
“We have enjoyed a more than 300% increase in court hire from enhanced online capabilities, too (a redesigned website and online contactless booking system).
“We’ve put in significant time and effort into developing club programs (particularly junior Hot Shots) and coaching staff to deliver the highest-quality sessions to the community as well.”
But, Abbott admitted COVID-19, and its subsequent stay-at-home orders, made life difficult for everyone over the past 18 months.
“Honestly, it’s been really tough,” he said.
“We’re fortunate enough to be allowed to operate at restricted capacity.
“So, I guess we capitalised on that to allow people a way to exercise during lockdown, which was essential for many of their physical and mental health.
“Financially, it’s been a bit of a struggle, however we’re pushing through and I’m sure we’ll bounce back stronger next year.
“The next few months will be pivotal for us.
“We are expecting to have our new Hot Shots kids-sized court fully-constructed soon, which will be a fantastic asset to the whole community.
“Now that restrictions are easing, we’ve spent countless hours redesigning all our programs and upskilling our coaching team to deliver the best initiatives in the region.
“We’re looking to really gain some momentum and show the community how great and beneficial the sport can be.
“Our ultimate goal has always been to spread the word of the many physical and mental health benefits, social benefits and skill development tennis can offer.
“Thankfully, we’re now in the perfect position to really capitalise on this.”
2021 Award winners
- Coaching Excellence – Club: Gemma Eaton
- Coaching Excellence – Development: Joe Porley
- Coaching Excellence – Performance: Ben Pyne
- Coaching Excellence – Operator: Tim Walter
- Excellence in Officiating – George Fletcher Award: Marko Savic
- Most Outstanding 30+ Tennis Senior: Mary Gordon
- Most Outstanding Athlete with a Disability: Ben Weekes
- Most Outstanding Competition: White City Maccabi – Super Series Competition
- Most Outstanding Inclusion Initiative: Tony Podesta – Merrylands Multicultural Girls Program at Hilltop Road Public School
- Most Outstanding School: Hilltop Road Public School
- Most Outstanding Tennis Club or Venue – Metro: Collaroy Tennis Club
- Most Outstanding Tennis Club or Venue – Country: Bonny Hills Tennis Club and Total Tennis Mount Hutton
- Supporting Tennis Government: Central Coast Council
- Volunteer Achievement: Brett Thomas
- Junior Athlete of the Year – Female: Catherine Aulia
- Junior Athlete of the Year – Male: James McCabe
- Jim O’Neill Service to Tennis: Norma Stead OAM
- NSW Player of the Year: Alex de Minaur
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