Imaginative Visions of the Future Shine in the 2024 Australian Open Schools and All In Block Buster Tennis Challenge.
Students from across Australia have demonstrated extraordinary creativity and innovation in this year’s Australian Open Schools and All In Block Buster Tennis Challenge. Organized by the Australian Esports League (AEL) in partnership with Tennis Australia, the competition challenged participants to reimagine the future of the Australian Open using Minecraft Education. Students were tasked to incorporate elements such as sustainability, community, and cutting-edge technology into their designs.
This unique project saw students groups of Years 10–11, Years 7–9, and Years 4–6 work together to reimagine the iconic tennis stadiums of the Australian Open, fan zones, amenities, player facilities, transport and sustainable practices. Alongside fostering problem-solving skills and teamwork, the initiative highlighted the power of digital platforms in inspiring the next generation.
“I want to congratulate all participants in the 2024 Australian Open Schools and All In Block Buster Tennis Challenge,” says Darren Kwan, CEO of the Australian Esports League. “The level of innovation and teamwork we’ve seen is truly inspirational. Thank you to all the schools, teachers, and parents for encouraging these young creators. This partnership with Tennis Australia and Minecraft Education has shown us that the future of sports is not only about competition on the field, but also about collaboration and imagination off the field.”
“Congratulations to each and every entrant on your incredible visions for the future of the Australian Open,” adds Ridley Plummer, Senior Manager Digital Sales & Metaverse at Tennis Australia. “From thoughtful sustainability initiatives to groundbreaking technological ideas, the quality of these Minecraft Education projects was outstanding. A huge thank you also to the educators, families, and communities who supported our young innovators—and to the Australian Esports League for bringing this groundbreaking event to life.”
2024 National Winners
In this year’s challenge, students competed in three main categories based on their school year levels: Years 10-11, Years 7-9, and Years 4-6. Each category featured national finalists who took out 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, as well as state-level champions and a solos winner. The National 1st place winners in each category will receive an exclusive experience at the upcoming Australian Open in January, plus additional prizes.
Years 10-11 Category
- 1st: Denmark Senior High School – Bowen H (also the WA state champion)
- 2nd: Encounter Lutheran College – ELC-KAFO (also the SA state champion)
- 3rd: Marcellin College Randwick – Blockhead Fred (also the NSW state champion)
- State Champions: Phoenix P-12 Community College – The incredible builders (VIC), Marcellin College Randwick – Blockhead Fred (NSW), Lourdes Hill College – Last-Min Bamboozels (QLD), Encounter Lutheran College – ELC-KAFO (SA), Denmark Senior High School – Bowen H (WA)
Years 7-9 Category
- 1st: Doncaster Secondary College – Minecraft Dirt Blocks (also the VIC state champions)
- 2nd: Thomas More College – The Green Savers (also the SA state champions)
- 3rd: The Knox School – 3D Terraria
- State Champions: Doncaster Secondary College – Minecraft Dirt Blocks (VIC), Concord High School – The Good Builders (NSW), Hillbrook Anglican School – Grand Slam Builders (QLD), Emmaus Christian School – Laver Legends (ACT), Emmanuel Catholic College – Megabuilders (WA), Thomas More College – The Green Savers (SA), Penguin District School – Widgaffy (TAS)
Years 4-6 Category
- 1st: Daisy Hill State School – MCCAME (also the QLD state champions)
- 2nd: Canterbury College – CC Taipans
- 3rd: Daisy Hill State School – MCCHBC
- State Champions: Serpell Primary – Serpell Esports (VIC), Petersham Public School – The Blockheads (NSW), Daisy Hill State School – MCCAME (QLD), Wanniassa Hills Primary School – Success (ACT), Mandurah Baptist College Primary – The Goated Destroyers (QA) and St Michael’s College Primary – Legendary Builders (SA)
Solo Winners
- 1st: Years 7-9 – Mia L
- 2nd: Years 7-9 – Thomas N
- 3rd: Years 4-6 – Uday S
Reimagining the Future of the Australian Open
Each project tackled the exciting challenge of envisioning a digital version of the Australian Open that fosters environmental responsibility, inclusive communities, and cutting-edge technology. From solar-powered stadiums to community-driven fan engagement, the student submissions displayed remarkable creativity and passion.
All participants showcased a passion for creativity and problem-solving, making this year’s event a true celebration of Australia’s brightest young minds. The organizers extend their heartfelt gratitude to teachers, parents, and schools whose enthusiastic support helped shape a memorable experience for every competitor.
To see all submissions visit the results page here: https://ael.org.au/aochallengeresults/