Asha Munodawafu's commitment and dedication to tennis and the community has not gone unrecognised with the young athlete being awarded the 2024 Young Volunteer Achievement Award at the recent Tennis NSW Awards.
The Red Bend Catholic College student has been a valuable member of the Parkes Tennis Club over the past 12 months, coaching younger athletes, attending a variety of Tennis Australia Youth Programs and founding The Hey Sis Project with Asha creating an inclusive group of girls full of empowerment and positivity.
The Young Volunteer Achievement Award honours volunteers within tennis who foster relationships within and between their club and the community, recognising the contribution volunteers make to the sport.
"Receiving this award is an amazing feeling. It's a real honour to be recognised for my contributions to the tennis community, and it inspires me to continue volunteering and making a meaningful impact," Asha said.
"There are so many young dedicated volunteers out there, so being selected was a pleasant surprise. It just goes to show that hard work and passion don't go unnoticed."
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Asha is now the NSW entrant into the Tennis Australia Awards for the Young Volunteer Achievement award.
"Being the NSW entrant for the Australian award feels surreal! It's a huge achievement and I'm grateful for the opportunity to represent our state. It motivates me to continue my efforts and encourages others to get involved.
"Volunteering is crucial for building a strong and supportive tennis community. It fosters connections, promotes inclusivity and helps grow the sport.
"Every little bit of time and effort contributes to creating a welcoming environment for players of all ages and skill levels," Asha added.
Asha is now busy planning her next Hey Sis Project where everyone is welcome to attend.
The event, 'Rallying against Breast Cancer', will be raising money for the McGrath Foundation.
"We're serving up hope on the tennis court as part of the Hey Sis Project to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research, support and education.
"I want to raise money for the McGrath Foundation because their mission to ensure that no one faces breast cancer without the support of a McGrath breast care nurse is vital."
The event will take place on Saturday, November 9 at the Parkes Tennis Courts from 1-4pm.
The afternoon will be full of matches, inspiring stories and a strong sense of community.
The theme is 'pink is the colour we care' so make sure to have your best pink outfit on as there will be prizes for best dressed.
To register and pay $5 per person please contact Asha on 0466417716 by November 6.
If you can't make it to the event but still want to support the cause head to the Hey Sis Project's fundraising page via pinkisthecolour.com.au/fundraisers/httpswwwtheheysisprojectcom
"It's crucial to raise awareness and funds for this important cause, and I believe that every effort we make can truly make a difference in people's lives," She said.
"Your support will help us ace the fight against breast cancer. Together, we can create a brighter future."
