For as long as she can remember, 22-year-old Ebony Miles has been playing tennis. The Exford woman was recently crowned ‘rookie coach of the year’ at a Tennis Australia ceremony. She speaks to Sumeyya Ilanbey.
How do you feel about being announced as rookie coach of the year?
I feel very honoured and humbled about it. I wasn’t expecting it but it feels very good.
How long have you been playing tennis? And where did the passion stem from?
I’ve been playing for probably 17 years. Both my parents played it, my grandparents played and I have a sister who plays tennis. I guess playing with them and the fact they always took an interest – they always came and watched me. I have a bit of memories about playing tennis with my family when I was younger. When I used to go to my grandparents’ house, grandpa and I would have a bit of a hit.
Who are your biggest inspirations in the tennis world and why?
Martina Hingis. I find everything about her very inspirational – the way she carries herself, plays tennis.
Do you think Melton really appreciates the sport of tennis?
Yeah, I did feel supported growing up. We’d [at Melton South Tennis Club] play against different clubs, we’d go up to the Australian Open in January and all the clubs used to get together.
What can be done to improve the tennis culture in Melton?
I think we need some more courts and that kind of stuff, and we also need some facilities to be upgraded. A lot of people want to just go down to the courts and have a hit, but there are a shortage of courts. If we had some more, it’d make life a lot easier for those people.
What have been some of the biggest struggles for you in your career?
I’ve been coaching for six years and haven’t really had any big struggles. I’ve had a lot of support from both my family and the other coaches.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Hopefully I’ve got a club of my own and I’m head coach. I’d like to see myself as a tennis player at the Australian Open, but I don’t think that’ll happen – it’d be nice, though.
What are some of your favourite downtime activities?
I guess going to the movies. I don’t do much else except play tennis.
