Wodonga's Madison Kelly was diagnosed in 2023 with Stargardt disease, which causes significant deterioration to her central vision.
After her ophthalmologist suggested she should play blind tennis, Madison took up the sport and hasn't looked back.
In February of this year, she competed in her first blind and low vision (BLV) tournament in Melbourne. Since then, Madison has competed in two tournaments in Melbourne and Sydney and recently attended the BLV National Tournament held at Melbourne Park, where she was awarded runner up in the B4 Women's Singles category.
Madison is now ranked number two in Australia in a number of BLV tennis categories.
This month, she has been named the recipient of Wodonga Council's Young Achieve Scheme (YAS) Award.
Madison's mother Rachel remarked that playing tennis has been extremely beneficial for Madison.
"BLV tennis has not only provided a sport where Madison can be competitive but more importantly has provided a support network with likeminded kids, young people, adults, parents and carers," she said.
"We share our stories, challenges and ways to overcome them. It has shown us that those living with blindness and low vision are living fulfilling and successful lives."
Due to limited local opportunities for Madison to build her tennis skills, she has been travelling to compete at state tournaments and has recently joined a Melbourne squad who train every Sunday.
For Madison to maintain her ranking and improve her skills, she is required to attend regular tournaments taking place across the country. Funding from the Young Achievers Scheme will help support this travel.
"We are grateful to Wodonga Council for awarding the YAS Award to Madison. The financial assistance will be used to help her attend state tournaments and attend weekly squad training in Melbourne to hone her skills," said Rachel.
As Madison continues to perfect her skills, she is hoping to be invited to the International Blind Tennis Association (IBTA) World Championships.
Madison also aims to raise the profile of BLV in the Wodonga Community and create an inclusive community on the border. In the future, Madison aspires for blind and low vision tennis to be included in the Paralympics, where she can represent Australia.
The Young Achiever Scheme (YAS) recognises and supports young people under 25 years old who display an outstanding achievement in their chosen field.
The scheme provides financial assistance of up to $800 to individuals or groups of young people to participate, develop skills, compete, perform or represent Wodonga in their chosen endeavour at a local, state, national or international level.
There are six categories:
- Arts, performance, music and dance;
- Sport and recreation;
- Community leadership;
- Education and training;
- Cultural; and,
- Agricultural, environmental and sustainability.
