Soundball Singapore empowers the visually impaired to play tennis, challenging perceptions and creating a community of resilience.
SINGAPORE: In the midst of an intense tennis match, the arena falls into a quiet hush. The players on center court share a determined gaze as they prepare to serve. The crowd’s attention is rapt as the rally begins, and a wave of cheers breaks out when a match point is won.
As someone who grew up following the iconic rivalry between Nadal and Federer, I’ve always been captivated by the passion and energy surrounding tennis. From the elegance of Wimbledon to the dominance of the Williams sisters and the rise of current stars like Carlos Alcaraz, tennis remains a spectacle enjoyed by fans across the globe. Beneath that spectacle lies a game that requires more than just physical prowess—it demands mental resilience and a unique harmony between the senses of sight, sound, and touch.
Now, in Singapore, a quiet revolution is happening. Soundball Singapore, also known as Soundball SG, is redefining the game by removing sight from the equation. Blind tennis, a sport that challenges convention and defies perceptions, is gaining momentum and proving the power of resilience and determination within the visually impaired community.
The Origins of Soundball SG
Soundball SG’s journey began in 2012 when founder Sook Zhen discovered blind tennis through a BBC documentary. Fascinated by the idea of making tennis accessible to the visually impaired, she secured specialized soundballs—tennis balls that emit audible sounds, allowing players to track their movements despite being unable to see. Despite the lack of resources, Soundball SG started with a handful of players and a mission to empower the visually impaired to enjoy tennis.
Initial sessions were held at the Singapore Association for the Visually Handicapped (SAVH), where the uneven grounds posed a challenge. Nevertheless, Soundball SG pushed forward, eventually securing better facilities at Pathlight School and holding Singapore’s first-ever blind tennis tournament in 2016.
Adapting the Game
Blind tennis is more than just playing with soundballs. The courts are specially designed with tactile enhancements, allowing players to feel their way around using their feet and racquets. These adaptations level the playing field, making the game accessible and competitive for all players, regardless of their visual impairment. The rules of blind tennis include allowing multiple bounces depending on the player’s classification, and the game continues to evolve as more players and volunteers join the cause.
Chris Hortin Tan, a full-time volunteer and blind tennis player, shares her personal journey with the sport. She initially doubted how someone who couldn’t see could possibly play tennis. However, her experience with Soundball SG transformed her life. “Soundball SG opened my eyes—or rather, my ears—to a whole new world of possibilities,” says Chris. Through blind tennis, she has found a sense of belonging and rediscovered her confidence, both on and off the court.
Creating a Supportive Community
Soundball SG is more than just a tennis organization; it is a community. Volunteers play a vital role in fostering inclusivity and support, guiding players and cheering them on throughout their matches. This sense of camaraderie extends beyond the court, as players and volunteers bond through social events, workshops, and outreach initiatives.
The community is united in its mission to create an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of disability, can participate fully. Through their outreach programs, Soundball SG is raising awareness about visual impairment and challenging societal stereotypes, demonstrating that disability does not define one’s ability to succeed.
Overcoming Challenges and Moving Forward
Despite the significant strides Soundball SG has made, the initiative continues to face challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is raising awareness about blind tennis, as many people are still skeptical and unaware of the sport. Additionally, recruitment of players and volunteers remains a challenge. Yet, the determination of the community is unshaken. Chris sums it up perfectly: “What we lack in funding, we make up for in passion and determination.”
Chris is hopeful for the future of blind tennis, with dreams of the sport gaining global recognition. She envisions blind tennis being included in world championships and eventually becoming an official sport in the Paralympics. “It’s about proving that anything is possible with the right mindset and support system,” she says.
Soundball SG: A Ground-Up Initiative
Soundball SG exemplifies the power of ground-up initiatives in driving social change. Founded by passionate individuals like Sook Zhen and Kenneth Ng, Soundball SG continues to thrive through the collective efforts of volunteers and players. The initiative is part of a growing movement that is reshaping the way we think about disability, sports, and community empowerment.
Despite the challenges, Chris and Soundball SG are committed to continuing their mission of inclusivity. “Seeing the impact we’ve had on people’s lives—the smiles, the joy—makes it all worth it,” she says. With the unwavering support of its members and volunteers, Soundball SG is breaking barriers and proving that anything is possible, one match at a time.
