Why Recognition Matters: Ben Jones on the Power of the 2025 TCA Awards

The 2025 Tennis Coaches Australia (TCA) Awards evening brought together coaching professionals from across the nation to honour those who continue to make a powerful impact on the game. It was a night of connection, inspiration, and recognition - shining a light on coaches who embody the values and vision of Tennis Coaches Australia.

Among the most meaningful stories of the night was that of Ben Jones, who made history by becoming the first interstate TCA member to receive an award. In a special video interview recorded in the lead-up to the event, Ben shared his reflections on what this milestone meant to him, and why recognition in the coaching community matters more than ever.

Recognition That Extends Beyond Achievement

In his interview, Ben speaks candidly about how being named a recipient was both unexpected and deeply appreciated. As the first award winner from outside Victoria, his recognition marked an important step forward in TCA’s evolution as a truly national organisation.

“It’s incredibly humbling. To be recognised by your peers, especially as someone from interstate - shows just how inclusive and united this coaching community has become.”

For Ben, the award wasn’t just a personal honour. It was a signal that coaching excellence transcends geography - and that every coach, no matter their location, has the potential to lead, inspire, and be celebrated.

The Importance of Nominating Others

Ben also spoke passionately about the role of nominations in surfacing great work happening in all corners of the country. He highlighted how many incredible coaches work behind the scenes, often going unrecognised simply because no one takes the time to share their story.

“There are coaches doing remarkable things day in and day out. Sometimes all it takes is one nomination to bring their efforts into the light.”

His story serves as a reminder that peer-to-peer recognition isn’t just powerful, it’s essential to the health and growth of the coaching ecosystem. Nominations validate the quiet achievers, highlight role models, and encourage continued excellence.

A Night That Builds Connection

Ben reflected on the event itself as a rare opportunity to gather as a national community. For coaches who often operate in silos, at local clubs, schools, or high-performance centres - the awards evening created space to feel part of something larger. Wes shares:

“Being in that room, surrounded by other passionate, committed coaches - it was energising. You realise you're not alone in this.”

This sense of belonging and shared purpose is central to TCA’s mission. Events like the Awards night help foster cross-state relationships, open dialogue, and knowledge-sharing across all levels of the coaching journey.

Honouring All Stages of Coaching

The 2025 Awards recognised coaches across three key categories, each capturing a different stage of the coaching pathway:

• Club/Centre Coach of the Year (George Gilmour Memorial Trophy): Celebrating long-standing contributions to club coaching and community development.

• Rising Star Award: Highlighting coaches under 35 who are shaping the future of tennis with innovation and enthusiasm.

• Rookie of the Year Award: Acknowledging young assistant coaches showing early promise and strong commitment to the profession.

Ben’s recognition as the first interstate winner highlighted the growing inclusivity of these awards, and the importance of recognising talent and impact regardless of postcode.

A Message That Endures

Ben closed his interview with a message that resonated throughout the evening and beyond:

“Recognition reminds us that what we do matters. Coaching isn’t always glamorous, but it’s life-changing - for the players, the families, and the communities we serve.”

The 2025 TCA Awards didn’t just celebrate winners. They told the stories of coaches across Australia who are shaping lives, fostering resilience, and creating pathways - often without seeking credit.

And thanks to leaders like Ben Jones, the next generation of coaches is reminded that their work matters - and that the coaching community will continue to lift each other up, one nomination at a time.