SCHOOL TENNIS STARS VIE FOR STATE HONOURS

Almost 100 young tennis stars from across the state have converged on Brisbane to compete in the Queensland School Sport 12 years-and-under Tennis Championships.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the four-day championships started yesterday (Sunday) at the University of Queensland Tennis Complex at St Lucia, and will run until Wednesday 1 August.

“Twelve teams comprising of four boys and four girls are competing in the championships which is playing out as a singles’ tournament,” Mr Welford said.

“The overall champion region will be awarded as well as a champion boys’ region and a champion girls’ region.

“The Nev Cook Fair Play Trophy will also be awarded to the region which shows the best fair play and sportsmanship.

"I'd like to congratulate all competitors for their achievement in representing their regions, and wish them every success on and off the courts.

“I have no doubt some of these students will follow in the footsteps of Pat Rafter, Scott Draper and Nicole Pratt who all played in the championships before launching their professional careers.”

Twelve sporting regions are represented at the tournament — Capricornia, Darling Downs, Metropolitan West, Metropolitan North, Metropolitan East, Northern, North West, Wide Bay, Peninsula, South West, South Coast and Sunshine Coast.

Mr Welford thanked the dedicated teachers and school staff who had worked hard to make the championships a success.

"This event provides a great opportunity for these young athletes to compete at a high level while meeting and sharing experiences with their peers from across the state,” he said.

A state team consisting of seven boys and seven girls will be selected to compete at the School Sport Australia National Tennis Exchange which will be held in Hobart in October.