Sport
23 March, 2026
‘The real deal’
A RISING young talent from the Edmonton and Gordonvale tennis clubs is making her mark on the national stage after earning selection to a prestigious development camp.
Vanessa Fitzgerald, 12, has been selected for a training camp linked to the Billie Jean Cup in Melbourne, marking her fourth selection in 15 months.
President and coach Guy Thomas said the opportunity placed her among the top junior players in the country.
“Vanessa Fitzgerald, she’s 12 as you know, she’s just been selected for the camp again for the fourth time in 15 months to attend the Billie Jean Cup, which has been played in Australia in Melbourne,” he said.
“And there are two girls, two boys and she’s one of them (selected).”
Following the Melbourne camp, Vanessa will travel to Canberra to compete in the under-12 clay court nationals, with further opportunities potentially opening up internationally.
“It’s pretty clear she can have a hectic year with overseas tours,” Mr Thomas said.
Vanessa has already established herself as one of the top players in her age group nationally.
“She’s been the number one Australian in the 10s and the number one in the 11s in her birth year, and she’s leading in the 12s at the moment, in a birth year,” Mr Thomas said.
Her recent performances have included competing above her age level in a $10,000 tournament on the Sunshine Coast, where she was the youngest player in the field.
“She did well, won a couple of matches and lost in a tie break in the singles… she was at eight-all in the tie break,” he said.
Mr Thomas said Vanessa’s ability to compete against older and more experienced players highlighted her potential.
“I think she’s the real deal,” he said.
“You know, she’s beating really good women, and she’s just, only just turned 12 in February.”
With national selection and international pathways now emerging, Vanessa is set for a busy year as she balances competition, travel and school commitments.
