AO PRIDE NIGHT 2024 - What a great night!
On Wednesday, 7th February 2024 Lavington Tennis Club held it's inaugural Australian Open (AO) Pride Night, after successfully being granted $1500 from Tennis Australia to be a part of their AO Pride Cup initiative.
The purpose of these events is to break-down barriers for people within the LGBTQI+ communities to be able to come along and enjoy a game of tennis (or any sport for that matter).
We had a fantastic night at Lavington Tennis Club, with over 30 people attending. Players wore bright clothes, enjoyed the music and food, had games of tennis, and tried pickleball, new friendships and alliances were formed.
Every single attendee had positive feedback for our club.
"When's the next one, we'd love to come along"
"Thank you for making us feel so welcome"
"Can we start a social tennis and pickleball group?"
While the night was exciting, and lots of fun, it wasn't without controversy. Controversy and anti-gay ideology, should not be a part of our society in this day and age. It should not matter what race, religion, age, gender, or anything else people choose. If people want to play sports, they should be able to do so without backlash, feeling unsafe, ridiculed, or bullied.
We were very lucky to have the support of AlburyCity Council and Albury Police to avoid any disruption to our night. They arranged for the mobile CCTV trailer to be present to keep everyone safe. The night was successful and we had no problems, which was great for everyone. Bring on AO Pride Cup 2025!
The night would not have been as successful without the support of the following:
- Asahi Beverages , Albury - donation of bottled water
- Daily Grind Cafe, Lavington - delicious savoury food
- PCYC Albury - lending us their Pickleball equipment again
- AlburyCity Council and Albury Police - mobile CCTV
- Tennis Australia - the grant that made it all possible
- and finally, but by no means least... all the wonderful attendees that came along and had fun!
Lavington Tennis Club prides itself on being the leader of inclusive tennis in our local area. EVERYONE is welcome to become a member; and/or to hire our courts whether you're a member or not.
Until next time...
HAPPY HITTING!
Shiralee Allen
Lavington Tennis Club President