ANZ’s support of the ANZ Tennis Hot Shots program, has ensured students in their first year of school at a Tennis Australia partner school receive a brand new tennis racquet, with an astonishing 80,000 taking up the opportunity since January 2015.

Nationwide more than 213,883 children played ANZ Tennis Hot Shots in 2015/16, making the program one of Australia’s most popular sport participation programs.

ANZ Tennis Hot Shots ambassador Alicia Molik is delighted to see the opportunities the program offers to young children.

“ANZ has helped us deliver 80,000 racquets to children around the country, and you can’t wipe the smiles off the kids’ faces,” Molik said.

“It’s fantastic to see so many tennis racquets in the hands of young children, which really encourages them to participate in physical activity while doing something that is fun.

“The School Partnership Program is accessible to any primary school in Australia and gives kids the opportunity to play tennis as part of their curriculum. Tennis is a fantastic sport for kids – and their families – to play as part of an active and healthy lifestyle.”

Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley believes sports like tennis are vital to children at a young age.

“Sport has, and continues to play, a very significant role in the lives of all Australian families and communities,” Tiley said.

“Schools provide great opportunities for children to participate in sports, which in turn develops the physical, social and emotional skills which are critical to a child’s development.”