MILDURA is a long way from Bristol in England, but new Mildura Lawn Tennis Club coach James Page already feels at home.
The 31-year-old is also hopeful Australia’s summer of tennis on the professional circuit will lead to an increase in numbers taking up the sport.
Page moved to the region this week after coaching stints in Wellington, New Zealand and Canberra over the past few years.
Despite being a late convert to the sport, he left cricket and football behind to hit the courts before leaning into coaching.
“I’ve been playing tennis since 2015, so it was pretty late in life when I first became a student,” he said.
“I started to learn the game and then really got into the coaching side of things.
“After that the tennis journey took me to New Zealand, I was there for about two years in Wellington with a company called Evolve Tennis which was a really good experience, and then I came to Australia and got in contact with Robbie Manzano of Tennis Canberra and eventually on to Mildura.
“I got here Saturday evening, so far it’s very nice and the courts here are fantastic.”
Page said the main focus will be on bringing more juniors into the sport.
The timing of his arrival in Mildura is ideal with tennis coverage in full swing.
“In recent weeks, with United Cup and other ATP tournaments that have been going on, plus the Australian Open now, Channel 9 are doing such a good job with their broadcast and are making it accessible for everybody, which is what it should be,” Page said.
“Not just a game you have to be professional for, you can just get out and hit a few balls and enjoy it, especially in beautiful conditions like here in Mildura.”
People interested in coaching sessions can contact Mildura Lawn Tennis Club.
