By Esther Lauaki
Aitken Creek Primary School is nurturing a love of tennis.
The school was nominated, for the second year, in the Most Outstanding School category of the recent Tennis Victoria Awards.
More than 60 Aitken Creek Primary School pupils between the ages of five and 12 take tennis lessons each week as part of their curriculum.
Sports coordinator Joe Muscari said he was proud that the school’s tennis program was counted among the best in the state.
“Looking back to five years ago … our school didn’t have any program put into place but now, being recognised statewide, is a huge thing for tennis and sport in Craigieburn,” Mr Muscari said.
He said a partnership with the neighbouring Hume Tennis and Community Centre was key in making tennis a pillar of the curriculum.
“It’s a great opportunity for all students to participate in tennis at this great, world class facility,” Mr Muscari said.
“The students look forward each week walking to the centre during their PE lessons.
“The tennis isn’t just limited during school hours, access to the centre continues outside of school with many of our students enrolling in weekly lessons and then transitioning into Saturday competition and beyond.”
