Team Vic at the NITC | 12 August, 2025

The 2025 National Indigenous Tennis Carnival in Darwin, on Larrakia Country, saw 11 young First Nations players from across our state take centre court in a week of culture, connection and competition.

On court, Team Victoria delivered an outstanding performance, with two national titles and a strong third-place finish in the Ash Barty Cup (Qld 1st, NSW 2nd, Vic 3rd).

In the Showdown events, six Victorians competed across the 18/u and 14/u age groups, producing exceptional results:

Team Victoria had a very successful run overall with finals success in both the 18/u girls and 14/u boys categories. The 18/u girls’ championship final saw Lola Grigor (Vic) defeat Laylah Shawcross (Qld) 6-1 6-1 in the girls’ final. In the 14/u boys’ competition, Will Brooks-Gay (Vic) overcame Oakley Baylis (NSW) 6-1 6-2.

Victoria also showed our strength in doubles, with two more national champions crowned. In the 18/u girls’ doubles, Sophia Brooks-Gay (Vic) teamed up with Mahala Hitchings (NSW) to take the title, while in the 14/u boys’ doubles, Will Brooks-Gay (Vic) partnered with Zachery Tozer (NSW) to claim victory.

Victoria’s Future Stars team, Dakora Graham (Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung, Wiradjuri), Brock Mitchell (Wurundjeri), Nate Moloney (Ngadjuri), Zander Smith (Kamilaroi) and Asker Stanford-Lehmann (Bundjalung), also showed great promise, with Brock Mitchell earning a Deadly Award for his leadership, sportsmanship and positive spirit.

Off the court, the Carnival’s cultural program was a highlight for many. Our players took part in daily “Grounding Sessions” with Ian Goolagong, spear throwing (men), weaving (women), learning Larrakia language, Traditional Indigenous Games, hip hop dancing with Indigenous Outreach Projects, string making, hand printing, and enjoying a special performance from Barkaa.

Our very own Tahlia Wheately, Tennis Victoria Competitive Play Administrator, hosted a Yarning Circle, sharing her journey from NITC player to Australian Open staff member and Tennis Victoria role model.

Adam Watson, Tennis Victoria Inclusion Manager commented on the experience saying “The National Indigenous Tennis Carnival on Larrakia country is a powerful celebration of culture and First Nations pride. Watching our young players embrace their identity is truly inspiring. This event goes beyond tennis, it nurtures connection to culture, community, and country. Our Victorian mob have made us very proud.”