Forbes Public School (FPS) has been named one of three finalists for the 2025 Tennis NSW Most Outstanding School award, recognising the school’s dedication to creating opportunities for all students to discover and develop their love for tennis.

With support from Sporting Schools funding and the Premier's Sporting Challenge, Forbes Public has delivered whole-school tennis programs over two terms in 2023, 2024 and 2025, engaging students with professional coaching and Hot Shots equipment.

These initiatives have helped uncover terrific talent and sparked a strong tennis culture within the school community, and the enthusiasm fostered through these programs quickly translated into competitive success.

As a direct result of the in-class clinics, there has been a marked increase in students taking lessons and joining the Forbes Tennis Club.

A team of two girls and two boys was selected to represent the school in the NSW Primary Schools Sporting Association (PSSA) knock-out competition.

The team won the Western District championship to qualify for the State quarter finals, where they put in a strong performance in a tough match against Griffith East Public School who went on to win the state titles.

Six FPS students advanced to the Lachlan PSSA Tennis Team trials, where their performances earned them the opportunity to be selected in the Western PSSA Tennis Team.

Ivy Skinner was selected in the Western PSSA team and played as the number one ranked player at the Bathurst State PSSA Tennis Titles.

She was also awarded the Western Region Players’ Player Medal.Clara Skinner and Will Rees were named reserves, with Clara invited to represent the Sydney South West team.

The Stage 2 Todd Woodbridge Cup journey also reflects the school’s growth.

From an early first-round exit in 2022, the team has now qualified for the State finals three years running - read the full story on their achievements.

The school’s success is backed by tireless support from staff and volunteers.

Special recognition goes to Peter Clifton and Trevor Toole, who have been instrumental in developing students' skills and fostering a love for the game.

Mr Clifton’s commitment is deserving of recognition: he was named coach / trainer of the year at the Sportsperson of the Year Awards (SOYA) after donating more than 100 hours to training and supporting FPSteams.

His efforts extended beyond the court too, organising a family tennis day that raised an incredible $40,000 for Little Wings and provided support to an FPS family whose child was diagnosed with a rare illness.

Tennis NSW will be announcing winners on Thursday 16 October, at a gala to be hosted by Grand Slam champions Casey Dellacqua and John Fitzgerald.