Trademarks and affiliation
This event is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by Microsoft Corporation and Mojang AB.
Build the Future of Tennis in Minecraft Education – Your Creativity, Your Court!
Introduction
Welcome to the 2026 AO Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge!
Where creativity meets competition!
The Australian Open and the Australian Esports League are back again to invite students from across Australia to rebuild and reimagine the iconic Australian Open precinct in the immersive world of Minecraft Education.
This is more than just a challenge; it's your chance to showcase innovation, master sustainable design, and win exclusive, money-can't-buy experiences at AO 2027. Whether you're a tennis enthusiast, a budding architect, or just love the endless possibilities of Minecraft, this is your opportunity to shine.
Join us as we embark on an exciting journey where creativity meets competition! The Australian Open and the Australian Esports League invite students nationwide to reimagine the iconic Australian Open precinct in Minecraft Education. This isn't just a challenge, it's your opportunity to showcase innovation, sustainable design, and win exclusive experiences at AO 2027. Students will be competing for a share of the prize pool valued at more than $25,000.
Ready to build something amazing? Find out more about this challenge below.
Key Info
Everything You Need to Know
Important Dates
What You'll Need
A team of 2–4 students
Minecraft Education Edition license
Teacher or staff supervisor
A device that can run Minecraft Education
Reliable internet access for submission day
Format
Open to students in teams of 2-4, working from school or home. The competition is spread over four stages:
Competition Rules
The competition is taking place using Minecraft Education Edition, students require a license to the game.
Competition GuideTerms & Conditions
Participants are required to be students representing their school and enrolled in Years 4-12 at an Australian school.
Terms and ConditionsWatch the 2025 Highlights
Relive the creativity of last year’s AO Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge champions, then hear from Tennis Australia and the AEL on what the challenge is all about and the opportunities it opens up for your school.
Prizes
AO Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge features prizes and experiences valued at over $25,000.
National Champions
1st Place in each age group category, for up to 4 students and 2 teachers:
- Trip to the Australian Open finals weekend (covering accommodation and travel)
- Tickets to AO27 Women's Final
- Tickets to AO27 Men's Final
- Day Pass for AO27 finals weekend
- Oz Comic-Con Family Pass
- Medals and Certificates
- Custom made trophy from Hench & Scrap
- Champions Walk and Trophy Presentation on Rod Laver Arena court
- AOC 24G4 Gaming Monitor
- Hyper X Gaming Package (Headphones, Keyboards and Mice)
Runner Ups
2nd Place in each age group category, for up to 4 students and 2 teachers:
- Oz Comic-Con Family Pass
- Medals and Certificates
- AOC 24G4 Gaming Monitor
- Hyper X Gaming Package (Headphones, Keyboards and Mice)
3rd Place in each age group category, for up to 4 students and 2 teachers:
- Oz Comic-Con Family Pass
- Medals and Certificates
- Hyper X Gaming Package (Headphones, Keyboards and Mice)
Challenge Theme
AO Tomorrow – Reimagining the Future of Tennis and Major Events
In this challenge, students are invited to envision the Australian Open precinct, a major sports and entertainment festival as it could be in the future, showcasing how humanity’s advancements in sustainability, technology, and community development could transform this iconic space.
- Years 4-6 “Green Game Day”, students design a future AO experience focused on sustainability, green spaces, renewable energy and fan entertainment.
- Years 7-9 “Smart & Sustainable Precincts”, students will design interconnected AO precincts using smart technology, renewable infrastructure and accessible public spaces, focusing on inclusion and mobility.
- Years 10-12 “The Future Grand Slam”, students reimagine the Australian Open as the world’s most sustainable and technologically advanced tennis event.
This challenge invites students to push the boundaries of creativity, sustainability, and innovation, transforming the future of tennis and community spaces.
Challenge Theme Overview
Registration
Register Now for the AO Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge!
Don't miss your chance to be part of this groundbreaking event where creativity meets competition. Whether you're a teacher looking to inspire your students or a student eager to showcase your skills, registering is simple and quick. Teams can consist of 2-4 students, and with the challenge tailored to different year groups, everyone has an opportunity to shine. Sign up today to secure your spot and start planning your vision of the Australian Open precinct of the future. Ready to build something amazing? Register now and be part of the future of tennis!
Registration costs $30 per student.
There is no limit to the number of teams a school may submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Minecraft Education?
Minecraft Education is a game-based platform that inspires creative, inclusive learning through play. Built in the traditional blocky world of Minecraft, the education platform is a walled environment that unlocks new ways to tackle any subject or challenge. Teachers and students can dive into subjects like reading, maths, history, and coding with lessons and standardised curriculum designed for all types of learners. Our project will emphasise creativity with a focus on sustainable design, encouraging students to integrate eco-friendly features such as renewable energy sources, green roofs, and water conservation systems.
Who can participate?
Students in years four to twelve or equivalent, in teams of two, three or four.
Students must be enrolled at an Australian school or in an Australian distance education program.
How long is the event?
The challenge will run for ten weeks, starting on 14 September 2026.
What are the submission guidelines?
Participants must submit their Minecraft world file along with a brief presentation explaining their design choices and innovative features.
What are the prizes?
Winners will receive exclusive prizes and trophies and their winning submissions will be showcased on the AO website and social channels. The national champions will be flown to Melbourne for an unforgettable AO experience. The grand prize includes a money-can’t-buy Rod Laver Arena court walk and behind-the-scenes tour, a player meet and greet, and a photoshoot with the AO trophies.
How much does it cost to enter?
Entry is $30 + GST per student. Bulk entry and hardship discounts are available. Contact minecraft@ael.org.au for further information.
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation as Traditional Owners of the land on which Melbourne and Olympic Park is located and recognise their ongoing connection to this land, and rich culture. We pay respects to their Elders past, present and future.
