Unleashing the Untold Story of Elizabeth Smylie: From Tennis Legend to Philanthropy Maven
Are you a fan of tennis? If so, you might have heard of Elizabeth Smylie, the Australian tennis player who once dominated the doubles circuit alongside her compatriot, Wendy Turnbull. But did you know that Elizabeth’s contributions to society are not limited to her tennis career? In this blog post, we will delve into the untold story of Elizabeth Smylie, from tennis legend to philanthropy maven.
Early Years and Tennis Career
Elizabeth Smylie was born in Forbes, New South Wales, in 1963. As a child, she was passionate about sports, particularly tennis. Her talent and dedication paved her way to the professional circuit, where she excelled in doubles. Elizabeth won thirteen doubles titles, including four Grand Slam events, with her partner Wendy Turnbull. She reached her career-high doubles ranking of world No. 2 in 1987.
Life Outside Tennis
Although Elizabeth retired from professional tennis in 1993, she didn’t walk away from the game altogether. She coached Australian players, including Todd Woodbridge and Renae Stubbs, and served as a commentator for the Australian Open and other tournaments. Elizabeth also took on a new challenge – real estate. She established her own property development company, which she ran until 2012.
Philanthropy Work
Elizabeth’s retirement from tennis gave her more time to focus on her philanthropy work. She has been a committed supporter of various charities, including the National Breast Cancer Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities. Elizabeth is also a founding board member of the Australian Tennis Foundation and works to promote the sport among young people.
The Elizabeth Smylie Tennis Foundation
In 2011, Elizabeth launched the Elizabeth Smylie Tennis Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that aims to provide tennis opportunities to disadvantaged children in Australia. The foundation’s programs have been successful in reaching out to kids from low-income backgrounds and promoting the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and fitness.
Impact of Elizabeth’s Work
Over the years, Elizabeth’s philanthropy work has been recognized and appreciated by many. In 2013, she was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to tennis and the community. Elizabeth’s passion and dedication to empowering and giving back to society have made her an inspiration to many.
FAQS
1. What is Elizabeth Smylie’s tennis background?
Elizabeth Smylie was a professional tennis player from Australia who excelled in doubles. She won thirteen doubles titles, including four Grand Slam events, with Wendy Turnbull.
2. What philanthropy work is Elizabeth Smylie involved in?
Elizabeth Smylie is a committed supporter of various charities, including the National Breast Cancer Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities. She is also a founding board member of the Australian Tennis Foundation and launched the Elizabeth Smylie Tennis Foundation.
3. What is the Elizabeth Smylie Tennis Foundation?
The Elizabeth Smylie Tennis Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that aims to provide tennis opportunities to disadvantaged children in Australia.
4. What has been the impact of Elizabeth Smylie’s philanthropy work?
Over the years, Elizabeth’s philanthropy work has been recognized and appreciated by many. In 2013, she was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to tennis and the community.
5. What other work has Elizabeth Smylie been involved in?
In addition to her tennis career and philanthropy work, Elizabeth established her own property development company, which she ran until 2012.
6. Has Elizabeth Smylie won any awards for her work?
In 2013, Elizabeth was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to tennis and the community.
7. What values does the Elizabeth Smylie Tennis Foundation promote?
The foundation’s programs promote the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and fitness among children from low-income backgrounds.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Smylie’s legacy extends beyond her incredible tennis achievements. Her dedication to helping others and giving back to the community has made her an admirable figure. Through her foundation, Elizabeth has provided opportunities for disadvantaged children to learn and grow both on and off the tennis court. Elizabeth Smylie’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and making a positive impact. Who knows what Elizabeth’s next chapter will entail?
