Collaroy Tennis Club has been named NSW’s top community sports club, winning Community Club of the Year at the 2025 NSW Community Sports Awards. Located on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the club was recognised for its inclusive programs, upgraded facilities and strong community connections.
A Century of Local Sport and Service
The announcement was made on 30 June at a ceremony attended by sporting officials, local leaders and community representatives. Organised by Sport NSW and backed by the NSW Government, the award honours volunteer-run clubs that impact grassroots sport. Founded in 1922, Collaroy Tennis Club now supports over 200 members with six courts and solar-powered LED lighting.
More than $500,000 in upgrades over the past decade have improved accessibility, sustainability and facilities. The club’s inclusive programs, run in partnership with Evolve Tennis Academy, earned it recognition as one of only three Inclusion Development Hubs in NSW.
Leading the Way in Equity and Access
In 2023, Collaroy hosted its first wheelchair tennis championship and added new sports wheelchairs for hire. These changes reflect the club’s drive to make tennis a game for everyone. They also joined Tennis NSW’s gender equity pilot program, guided by former professional player Casey Dellacqua, to build better participation pathways for women and girls.
Collaroy’s clubhouse now includes inclusive bathrooms, shaded seating areas and even table tennis facilities. Their work in creating a welcoming space for all earned them finalist status not only for Club of the Year, but also in the Inclusion Achievement and Sport Administrator categories.
Recognition Across the Board
Tennis NSW CEO Darren Simpson said the award reflected the club’s outstanding efforts across a range of programs. The 2025 NSW Community Sports Awards considered clubs from every sport in the state, not just tennis, making the win especially meaningful.
Joining Collaroy at the ceremony were Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins and Member for Wakehurst Michael Regan MP, who congratulated the club’s leadership and volunteers for their dedication. Their names lit up on the stadium’s giant screen during the event, marking a proud moment for everyone involved.
A Club Built on Community
The club credits its success to the dedicated volunteers, players, coaches and supporters who make Collaroy more than just a place to play. Members benefit from free social sessions, subsidised competition entry and a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
Previously recognised as Tennis Australia’s Most Outstanding Club in 2022 and earning silver status in the 2025 Pride in Sport Index, Collaroy is no stranger to awards. This latest honour, however, highlights its deeper commitment to inclusion, community and grassroots sport.
Published 29-July-2025
