The Victorian LGBTIQ+ tennis community is opening its courts for a day designed to welcome newcomers, allies and experienced players alike. Hosted by VicTennis with support from the Victorian Tennis Academy, the Pride Open Day takes place at the Caulfield Park Tennis Centre. This event is framed as a safe, inclusive space where people can try tennis, ask questions about the club and meet regular members. For clarity, LGBTIQ+ here refers to sexual and gender diverse people and the term is used to describe the inclusive focus of the club.
The gathering is free to attend, but registration is required to help organisers plan courts and coaching. Food and drinks will be available, and there are spot prizes on offer thanks to long-term supporters of the club. VicTennis aims to blend fitness, friendship and fun in an environment that values respect and accessibility for everyone who wishes to participate.
What to expect on the day
The day follows the club’s usual Sunday routine and starts at noon, giving people a relaxed entry point to the activities. The opening hour covers club introductions and short coached sessions where participants can learn basic techniques or refresh their game. From 1 to 3 pm, visitors can join the regular Sunday Social rotations — a format where players move through mixed groups to maximise play and meet different people. At 3 pm the playful Pride 1-Point Slam kicks off, offering light-hearted competition and prize opportunities for attendees.
Schedule highlights
Arrive before noon if you want to register on-site and chat with volunteers. The initial coaching period is suitable for absolute beginners and those returning after a break, while the later rotations accommodate a wide range of levels. Coaches and friendly members will provide information about ongoing programs, including tournaments, scheduled competitions and the weekly social sessions which can attract up to 40 participants. The structure balances instruction with plenty of court time so visitors can try different formats and find what suits them.
Who should come
This event is aimed at anyone curious about playing in a queer-friendly setting — from people picking up a racquet for the first time to regular players seeking a welcoming community. Allies and supporters are explicitly invited and the organisers emphasise that all events are treated as a safe space. VicTennis welcomes participants across skill levels and backgrounds, and the social rotations are deliberately designed to be inclusive so everyone can enjoy matches at a comfortable pace.
How VicTennis supports players and the broader community
VicTennis promotes more than match play: the club organises coaching, tournaments and social opportunities that foster connection beyond the court. Secretary Garth Ebelthite explains that the club’s priority is creating an environment where people feel at ease joining a group for the first time. The ethos — often summarised as fun, fitness and friendship — underpins weekly activities and special events, helping to lower the barrier for newcomers and offering pathways for players who want to progress into competitive play.
Learning pathways and progression
Coaching sessions at the Pride Open Day will outline options for skill development, from beginner clinics to advanced training. Information will be available about how regular attendees move into structured competitions or volunteer roles within the club. The organisers are keen to show practical routes for growth and community involvement, emphasising that players can shape their own experience whether they want casual social play or a more competitive schedule.
Practical information and how to join
The event is free to attend, but registration is essential to reserve court time and coaching slots. If you have questions before the day, email VicTennis at [email protected]. The location is the Caulfield Park Tennis Centre in Caulfield North and the open day runs on Sunday, April 12. Sunday Social rotations begin at 1 pm and the Pride 1-Point Slam starts from 3 pm. Food and drinks will be served during the afternoon, and volunteers will be on hand to answer queries and explain membership options.
Further reading and connections
For full details about upcoming sessions and longer-term programs, visit victennis.com or follow the club’s social channels. For broader LGBTIQA+ community news and related events, outlets such as QNews carry regular updates on local initiatives. Whether you’re seeking sport, social contact or a new group of friends, the VicTennis Pride Open Day is positioned as a friendly introduction to a welcoming tennis community.