A Yarra Glen Tennis Club player has been crowned the top player in her grade at the 2025 Tennis Victoria Player Awards.
Tahlia Wheatley took home Pennant Player of the Year for the Women’s Grade 4 competition at the awards night held at Kooyong Lawns Tennis Club on Sunday 26 October.
Ms Wheatley said she was super proud to receive the award, if a little shocked at first.
“Our Grade 4 ladies went really well, we went all the way to the final, but unfortunately just fell short, by I think eight games it was,” she said.
“We had an amazing run at the start, but yeah, just got done in the end, which was a bit unfortunate, but I felt that we were really positive throughout the whole season.
“Everyone was really keen to play, which was really good, and we had the support of the Yarra Glen Tennis Club on the day, which made it a lot easier and took all the stress off on the day.”
The Yarra Glen Tennis Club are no stranger to Tennis Victoria awards, winning the Community Engagement Award for the whole club and seeing committee member and coach Jarron Morris win his second Pennant Player of the Year for his grade in a row in 2024.
Ms Wheatley said she had a very consistent season, training every week, putting in the work and wanting to be better.
“I really loved doubles, I had a really great doubles partner in Emily, and just had a really consistent season,” she said.
“I just tried my best, not putting that expectation on myself to win every game, but making sure I was in the right mindset for the whole season and training as much as I can.
“I guess it paid off with the award so I just feel really, really lucky and grateful.”
Ms Wheatley has been playing tennis for nearly 10 years, starting when she was eight years old and beginning competition at the age of 10 or 11. Her strength is her work at the net and her volleys, perfect for playing doubles.
Ms Wheatley said she started out at Bundoora Tennis Club before moving to Yarra Glen five or six years ago in order to play women’s pennant.
“I have loved it so far, just the community that they’ve got there, Jarron’s done amazing work to build that reputation and everyone’s just so lovely and supportive over there…when I first came over, I was super nervous and wasn’t too sure about it, but everyone was just so welcoming and inviting,” she said.
“I know when the men’s made the finals last year, and they won it, we all got behind them and you can just really tell the support, the connection and the friendship that you can make over the six years I’ve been there.
“For anyone who wants to join, definitely do it, it doesn’t matter what standard you are at, everyone is welcome.”
The awards are held each year to celebrate the outstanding players of Victorian tennis from Tennis Victoria Pennant to the international stage.
Tennis Victoria chief executive Kim Kachel said to all the finalists and winners, congratulations on an outstanding year.
“Your achievements inspire the next generation of players and coaches, and we’re proud to celebrate your success through these awards,” she said.
To our coaches, volunteers, officials, administrators, and everyone who dedicates their time and passion to the sport, thank you. Your commitment and contribution form the foundation upon which Victorian tennis continues to thrive.
“Looking ahead, we remain focused on growing the game, supporting our clubs and communities, and creating opportunities for every Victorian to experience the joy of tennis.”
