Student Success Stories

Clay Slay in Canberra

In April Year 7 student Kana Tamura participated in the Australian Claycourt Championships in Canberra. Kana shares her experience. 

My Journey to the 12U Australian Claycourt Championships

By Kana Tamura (7A)

I started playing tennis when I was six years old, and over the past two years, I have been training with the National Development Squad and competing in national-level tennis tournaments. During the school holidays in April, I spent almost two weeks in Canberra playing in the ACT Championships and the 12U Australian Claycourt Nationals. The ACT Championships is the lead-up tournament for Nationals. Only the top 32 players in each age group across Australia qualify for Nationals, so earning a spot was a big achievement for me.

To qualify, I had to compete in a recent qualifying event in Melbourne. I was the No. 1 seed, but it wasn’t an easy road. Every match was tough, and I had to stay focused and play my best. I was thrilled to win all four of my matches in straight sets, which secured my place in the main draw of the National Championships.

The ACT Championships, held from April 7–10, felt like a mini Nationals because I got to play against some of the best players in the country. One of the highlights of this trip was winning the 12U doubles event with my partner. Becoming a doubles champion was such an exciting moment for both of us!

The Claycourt Nationals started on April 12. Competing in national tournaments is always tough—both physically and mentally. The level of competition is very high, and every match challenges me to improve. I’ve learned so much from these experiences—how to stay calm under pressure, how to adapt my game, and how to keep pushing even when things don’t go my way.

One unforgettable moment during the Nationals was seeing Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios, who came to the Canberra Tennis Centre almost every day for training. One day, I played my singles match right next to his practice court, and I couldn’t help glancing over at him many times during my match. He was so loud—even during training—that it was a bit distracting, but I think it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience! After my match, I got to take a photo with Nick Kyrgios and my friend.

Lastly, I want to thank my parents and my tennis coach, who travelled all the way from Melbourne to support me. Without their ongoing support, I wouldn’t have come this far in tennis. I’m determined to keep working hard so that one day, I can play in the Australian Open and other Grand Slam tournaments. I can’t wait to see how my tennis adventure will

Bayside Youth Awards 

Bayside’s outstanding young individuals have been recognised for their achievements and contributions at the Bayside Youth Awards.

The biennial awards recognise exceptional individuals aged 10 - 25 years for their contributions to the Bayside community across five different categories: Community, Creativity, Sports Leadership, Leadership, and the Julian Gurrieri Memorial Award for Youth Participation.

Nominations were received from schools, families, sports clubs, lifesaving clubs, youth services and community groups. Three MGSC students were up for awards for their participation in communtiy life. This is why: 

Pepper Smith (Year 11) – Nominee – Community Award

This year my new year's resolution to make a positive impact by launching a personal initiative to support a different charity each month. Through this project, I not only donate to each selected organisation but also raise awareness online and organise events to further their causes.

I've carefully chooses charities that reflect both local and global needs. With each post and event I'm trying to build a platform that inspires others to give back and take action.i got nominated for the community award , and im very happy about that .

I also want to inspire others to be themselves and not care about what others say , because ultimately my goals are bigger than what anyone can say. 

Daisy Russell (Year 7) – Nominee – Leadership Award

I was nominated for being a kind and compassionate leader and for winning the Victoria award for contribution to my school community and for helping everyone no matter what. 

Rosie Russell (Year 7) – Nominee – Leadership Award

I was nominated in recognition of my hard work and confidence. I am always happy to share my ideas while being inquisitive and caring. I include everyone and aim to spread joy to everyone. 

Though our students were not major award winners, they have proven themselves very worthy of their nomination and have made a difference in their communty. Congratulations Pepper, Daisy and Rosie!