Rally4Ever, founded by former Australian tennis professional Louise Pleming, began with a simple but powerful insight: the transformative impact of connection through tennis. Inspired by a chance meeting at a homeless kitchen, Louise launched a movement with a purpose—to foster meaningful human connections through the game of tennis.

The VTAF is proud to collaborate with Rally4Ever (https://rally4ever.org) to deliver inclusive tennis programs for adults in our community who may not otherwise have access to the sport and the wellbeing it nurtures. Thanks to the generosity of our VTA community—through their time, donations, and spirit—over 700 participants took part in weekly sessions at Fawkner Park and Powlett Reserve in the past year, with numbers steadily growing as word spreads.

In 2024, two dedicated participants expressed a desire to become coaches. Under the guidance of VTA Director Tina Keown and through Tennis Australia’s training pathway, both became certified Community Coaches. They now help lead R4E sessions and have pathways into tennis industry employment.

“This is a big highlight of my week” says Jane S, who was unemployed when she joined the sessions about 6 months ago. “Even though I’ve got a job now, I still try to get here and enjoy the company, fun and exercise.”

Looking ahead, VTAF is excited to expand the program’s reach in 2025 to include teenagers—offering them not only a new sport to enjoy, but a welcoming space to build friendships and community ties. This next chapter will be made possible through continued collaboration with R4E and partnerships with local schools and council initiatives.