Ace talent recognised

Horsham teenage tennis ace Jess McDonald, 17, will represent Victoria at School Sport Australia Pizzey Cup championships in Adelaide in May.

The year-12 St Brigid’s College student made the 16-member School Sport Victoria under-18 team after a nomination and trial process. The championship will be from May 4 to 11. Mcdonald follows in the footsteps of her older sister Steffi, who won selection in the under-18 state school team two years ago and is now studying in the United States of America on a college scholarship and progressing towards a professional career.

Mcdonald, also keen to pursue an overseas scholarship and heading to America early next year, said she was happy to win a place in the team after being an emergency last year.

“I was surprised but happy with the result. I play tennis with these girls all the time so it was great to make the team,” she said.

“It’s been different without having Steffi to have a hit with.”