Elite Athlete Spotlight - Elyse Bacea-Anton

This term we shine a spotlight on Elyse, one of our dedicated Year 3 students who balances her schooling with an impressive tennis training schedule. Elyse recently competed in the 2025 CBC Green WA State Qualifying Tournament and kindly shared her experiences with us.

Elyse began playing tennis at just six years old and has been training ever since. Today, she spends two to three hours each day on court, as well as attending squad lessons twice a week. While her commitment is high, Elyse explains that she does take Saturdays off to spend time with family, friends, and her church community.

A recent qualifying tournament was held at the Tennis West State Centre in Perth (29th to 31st August 2025). “Before singles matches I always feel nervous,” Elyse admits, “because sometimes I face strong players who are older than me. Doubles matches feel a little easier, as I enjoy teaming up and having fun with my partner.”

While losing can be disappointing, Elyse says the encouragement of her family and friends helps her look forward to what is next on her tennis journey.

One of the biggest supports for Elyse has been ACC Distance Education, which allows her to adjust her study times around training and travel. “It works really well for my whole family,” she says. “My three older siblings Oliver, Sophie, and Evelyn also train daily, so we can help each other.”

She explained that attending on-campus school previously made the days long and exhausting, especially with the added travel to and from training. Online learning now gives her the flexibility and energy to succeed in both her studies and her sport.

Elyse is honest about the challenges of performing at this level. Long hours on court can be tiring, and sometimes she has to miss play dates or parties in order to stay committed to her training. “It can be exhausting,” she reflects, “but I know that through hard work and commitment I can achieve my goals.”

What shines through most is Elyse’s gratitude for her family’s support, and her faith. “It always makes me happy when I am together with my family and we do all the work as a team. God’s plan for us is more important than anything else and we trust in it, as we do our part and do our best in everything.”

Elyse is excited to continue competing, training, and growing in her tennis journey and we look forward to following along and celebrating her achievements.