Legends in the Making: The Be Legendary Journey Continues in Melbourne
For the second year running, the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s Be Legendary program returned to Melbourne. In partnership with Tennis Australia, the initiative came back with a clear mission: to bridge the gap between tennis history and the stars of tomorrow.
This year’s visit to the Super 10s, Australia’s brightest young talents in their age group, felt even more personal. For the first time, the program introduced Youth Ambassadors: Joshua from Brisbane and Maria from Sydney. Having traveled to Newport for the 2025 Induction Celebration, the duo served as the inaugural voices in a new cohort of ambassadors that will inspire their peers throughout the year.
Connecting with History: The Legends Locker
Sessions began by immersing the Super 10s in the mission of the Hall of Fame through the Legends Locker unboxing activity. Through unique items that signify how tennis has evolved, how the Hall of Fame preserves that history, and the values of champions, the students prepared for lessons ahead.
Pieces unwrapped from the box included:
An antique wooden racquet and white tennis balls to symbolize how tennis has evolved
A G.O.A.T. statue representing the legends,
A poster listing tennis’ key values,
A model ticket to Newport, where two Super 10s selected by their peers will travel for the 2026 Induction Celebration.
The Legends Locker concluded with exciting news: the Super 10s would have the opportunity to take the court with two of Australia’s most respected champions, Hall of Famer Lleyton Hewitt and four-time major champion Ash Barty.
Putting Values into Practice
Before hitting the court, the Super 10s took part in lessons designed around two values reflective of Lleyton and Ash’s career: determination and respect.
Hewitt’s legendary never-say-die attitude in both his preparation and biggest moments on court took center stage for the boys’ lesson. By reflecting on how determination played a key role in Hewitt’s two major titles, the boys considered and shared with each other how they could showcase determination in their own performance.
The girls learned about Barty’s incredible respect for others and the sport. Known for her kindness and sportsmanship, Barty’s impact on young Aussie players was on full display as the girls considered how they can show respect and gratitude toward others.
These learnings culminated in the highlight of the week: on-court clinics with Hewitt and Barty.
Hewitt worked with the boys’ to demonstrate his trademark "hustle and heart." Hewitt’s instruction emphasized that chasing every ball is a mindset that applies to both tennis and life beyond the court.
Barty joined the girls’ program, sharing the technical secrets of her signature backhand slice. Equally impactful was her message of character, emphasizing deep respect for opponents, traditions, and oneself.
A Legacy in Motion
From technical drills to high-intensity volleys, the Super 10s athletes walked away with more than just improved strokes. By connecting directly with national heroes, these young players were challenged to carry the values of determination and respect into their daily training and lives.
The Be Legendary program travels next to Santa Barbara, Calif. on Feb. 21, where youth from the Santa Barbara area will learn about and connect with Hall of Famers Bob and Mike Bryan.
