NATIONWIDE, thirty tennis clubs and representatives across the country will take part in the biggest tennis rally this weekend in support of mental health; and Orange is on the map.
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A unique incentive designed to get people moving and connected, the 'RALLY4EVER' event sees local tennis clubs giving back to their communities, where coaches volunteer their time through free-of-charge workshops; one court, one coach, for one-hour.
To see the way [Brian Turton's] life just changed - how he started to feel a lot more self-confident, happier and calmer - I wanted to help others feel that, too.
- Former tennis pro, Lisa Pleming
Founded by women's tennis pro, Louise Pleming, the ace player, high-performance coach and commentator for the official Women's Tennis Association, she says RALLY4EVER targets a fun tennis experience for everyone.
"We want to create a stress-free time for everyone on court, and hopefully it continues into the day and week," Ms Pleming said.
"We provide a safe place to have fun and connect through movement, and it's amazing to see our community members lift each other up and come back again ... "
Also the recent winner of the John Newcomb medal for "The Spirit of Tennis Award", the star tennis icon was inspired at a Kings Cross soup kitchen three years ago by one, John Turton; a man who was homeless at the time, and struggling with mental health symptoms.
Now, Mr Turton serves as part of Ms Pleming's coaching team.
"Brian [Turton] has been the one that's led me on this journey," Ms Pleming said.
"To see the way his life just changed - how he started to feel a lot more self-confident, happier and calmer - I wanted to help others feel that, too."
With tennis coach Kevin John Firman on board with the charity's cause, the 'RALLY4EVER' event will aim to get people moving, forming long-lasting friendships, and building meaningful connections.
"I've got a fair few people that have said they'll come down and have a hit, so hopefully we can get a few more interested," Mr Firman said.
Workshops will be run in Orange from 11am to 12pm this weekend, January 15 and 16, at the Orange Ex-Services' Club Tennis Complex on Warrendine Street.
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