Young Aussie tennis stars on show at Royal South Yarra

The Australian Made Foundation Cup kicked off today at Royal South Yarra Lawn Tennis Club, showcasing the next generation of Australian tennis stars.

Over the next week, children from as far as Albany, Alice Springs, Burnie and Mildura will represent their states in the only interstate tournament that gives young children from rural and regional Australia the opportunity to compete nationally.

The event forms part of the Australian Made Summer of Tennis, a joint initiative of the Australian Made Campaign and the Fed Cup Foundation, with the best and fairest male and female players each awarded with a $1,000 cheque to assist with their tennis development.

The Australian Made Summer of Tennis campaign celebrates home-grown athletes and local industry, highlighting the importance of supporting both to ensure a better future for all Australians.

Australia’s Fed Cup Captain and tennis champion, Alicia Molik, is the initiative’s brand ambassador.

“The Australian Made Foundation Cup reminds us all about the importance of nurturing local talent – whether that be the next generation of athletes, farmers or manufacturers,” Australian Made Campaign Chief Executive, Ian Harrison, said.

“We are proud to support rural and regional Australia through this tournament.”

“Cost and travel constraints often prevent rural and regional players from participating in high level tennis, but the Australian Made Foundation Cup gives country children the same opportunities as their city counterparts,” Fed Cup Foundation President, Judy Dalton said.

Some of Australia's greatest tennis players, such as Rod Laver, Margaret Court and Pat Rafter originated from country areas.

In recent years, elite players such as Australian Open and Wimbledon Junior Champion Luke Saville and Australian Fed Cup player Jessica Moore have participated in the event.

The Australian Made Foundation Cup will be held at the Royal South Yarra Lawn Tennis Club in Victoria from 11- 15 January 2016, with the winners presented their awards on-court at the Kooyong Classic.