It’s tennis time in our household. Not that we actually get out the racquets and head to the local courts, though that might be a beneficial idea. No, we ride the wave of tennis excitement, cheering on our favourite players in front of the television. Two players whom I have immense respect for, are our homegrown heroes, Dylan Alcott and Ash Barty. While they both hold impressive tennis credentials, including number one ranking in the world, their off-court life is admirable.

Dylan’s achievements were recognised on Australia Day when he was announced Australian of the Year. Five years ago, he founded the Dylan Alcott Foundation with the core purpose of helping young Australians with disabilities gain self-esteem and respect through sport and study. A fan of music festivals, in 2018 he launched Ability Fest, a universally accessible music festival, featuring pathways for wheelchairs, quiet areas for people with sensory disabilities, and the presence of sign interpreters. Dylan states that his purpose every day is to change perceptions so people with disability can live the lives they deserve to live. He refuses to let self-pity or cynicism gain access to his mind. His advice to young people with disability is “For every one thing you can’t do, there are ten thousand things you can. For every idiot who gives you a hard time, there are ten thousand others worth your time”.

Ash Barty’s post-match interviews reveal much about who she is and what she stands for. She is often asked what it’s like to be the world’s number one player. She points out that she always tries to be the best version of herself on and off the court, as being herself is what she does best. “My parents taught me that being a good person is the most important thing in life and I try to do that every day. When I started playing tennis, my first coach Jim Joyce had four ‘rules’ – be a nice person, respect people and be respected, have fun and if you can play tennis that’s a bonus. I try to walk away with a smile even after a tough day.” She is always quick to credit her team for every achievement and to point out the qualities, on and off the court, of her competing players. She is personally involved in the Indigenous Tennis Foundation, animal welfare charities and relief for bushfire victims. 

Dylan and Ash are awesome examples of sporting greats who recognise that personal ambition, achievement and recognition are not the be-all and end-all. They have worked hard for their status, but for them, it is not the end goal. They have used their unique position and influence as a platform to improve the lives of others. I’m confident there won’t be any tragic stories of their downfall when their sporting prowess declines. Their focus will be on how they can continue to help improve the lives of those who need a helping hand; a consummate lesson for us all. 

Linda Gray
 linda@relationshipsanctuary.com.au
 0401 517 243