Blind tennis second seed Phoebe Jane never imagined she would be playing tennis at a professional level when she was diagnosed with macular degeneration about 15 years ago.
She was among the ambassadors of Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria who received the Minister’s Award for outstanding leadership at the 2022 Victorian Disability Awards on Tuesday, August 23.
Ms Jane has been training at the Williamstown Bayside Tennis Club and the Keilor Tennis Club since picking up a racket in December 2020, after Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria president Maurice Gleeson reached out to her.
“Getting involved with Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria changed my life,” she said.
“I’ve made the best friends.
“You realise what you are really capable of.”
Legally blind and without central vision, Ms Jane said she has played a modified version of tennis, including a larger ball with a rattle inside and more bounces allowed.
She said the experience had brought her out of her personal isolation and boosted her confidence and would encourage other blind people to take up a sport.
“A lot of us are quite competitive,” Ms Jane said.
Details: www.dffh.vic.gov.au/victorian-disability-awards
Matthew Sims
