Finalist – 2026 Victorian Community Tennis Awards

Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) is proud to share that the Hands Up for Tennis program, delivered by Slamin Tennis and Fitness in partnership with AMCS, has been selected as a finalist for the Most Outstanding Inclusion Initiative at the 2026 Victorian Community Tennis Awards.

Supported through the AMCS Connections for Wellbeing program, Hands Up for Tennis was created to provide inclusive opportunities for people experiencing mental health challenges and intellectual impairments to build confidence, improve wellbeing and connect with others through sport.

Over the program period, participants took part in more than 1,000 tennis sessions, forming new social connections, developing new skills and becoming more involved in their local communities. Many participants have continued their involvement in tennis through coaching, social play and club participation, demonstrating the program’s lasting impact.

This achievement highlights the value of community partnerships in creating opportunities for inclusion, reducing social isolation and supporting people to feel connected, valued and empowered.

AMCS is proud to have supported this initiative and congratulates everyone involved in making the program a success.