Barwon Sports Academy adds local flavour to tennis

BARWON Sports Academy is ready to launch this year’s tennis program.

The well-respected program has made one important tweak in 2021, the coaches will be from the Geelong region.

Previously, youngsters in the program have received great guidance from coaches provided by Tennis Victoria. But this year well-known Geelong-based coaches Olivia Rich, Matthew Hicks and Sacha Vlamynck will be taking the reins.

Rich said while the coaching within the program has always been of a high standard, the Geelong-based coaches would add an extra element in terms of the access youngsters can gain.

“Having the coaches from your region facilitating the program gives them more opportunity and more opportunity for us as good coaches to be there regularly,” Rich said.

“Because we’re all working together and have a really good relationship with all coaches in Geelong we can provide feedback to their private coaches.”

Rich said one of the main focuses of the program was plenty of on-court time and the depth of talent in the squad made for a high-level of practice.

“There’s a lot of on-court time … it’s all about getting that competitive play with the best kids in our area.

“It’ll be great for the kids, I think they’ll really benefit from it.”

The Barwon Sports Academy program sees the 15 selected junior players, with seven development players at the ready for any unavailability, begin on February 5.

The program consists of 24 weekly coaching sessions, 10 Sunday sessions, 20 strength and conditioning sessions, which is provided by Grand Slam Physiotherapy which is involved on the professional circuit.

There is also plenty of nutrition information, sports psychology and education sessions about the pathway from junior tennis to future prospects.

Geelong Lawn Tennis Club and Centre Court Indoor Tennis Geelong will host the various sessions.