When Stephanie Barnett is not guiding students in the classroom, you could find her hitting aces on the tennis court.
In October 2025, Stephanie, a teacher at Haileybury Castlefield (Brighton) was honoured with an induction into the prestigious Nicholls State University Hall of Fame in Louisiana, USA. This recognition celebrates her remarkable achievements as a collegiate tennis player.
Stephanie attended Nicholls State University on a tennis scholarship, where she completed a degree in elementary education, followed by a master’s in educational leadership and administration.
Her time playing tennis in the United States college system was very successful. Among her many achievements, Stephanie was named the Southland Conference Student-Athlete of the Year in 2015. The Southland Conference is one of the most competitive college conferences, or sporting competitions, in the USA. During the same year she was also recognised as Player of the Year by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association and named Nicholls Female Student-Athlete of the Year. With an impressive 32–11 match record in Southland Conference competitions, including a 11–0 season as a sophomore (second year), Stephanie was also ranked No. 61 in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Singles Rankings.
At her induction, Nicholls State University praised Stephanie’s tennis career, noting her significant contribution to their women’s tennis team.
Reflecting on her journey, Stephanie says that her experiences as a student and athlete in the US had a profound influence on her teaching philosophy. “Being part of an international team taught me to value different perspectives, appreciate diverse cultures and to communicate effectively and foster an inclusive environment,” she says.
She also says that the rigorous balance of academics, training and travelling to competitions instilled in her the importance of organisation, resilience and having supportive networks around her.
“Serving as captain of the tennis team for four years at Nicholls College honed my communication and leadership skills and taught me the value of listening and understanding others,” she explains.
Stephanie also learnt the importance of adaptability when faced with setbacks, something she tries to pass on to her students. “During two years of injury, I coached the team, which helped me appreciate that everyone learns differently and has unique strengths and challenges. This experience enriched my teaching and coaching, allowing me to adapt my approach to suit each individual,” she says.
After graduating and returning to Australia she began her teaching career with some substitute roles, before securing a role teaching Physical Education at Haileybury.
Currently, Stephanie is the Deputy Head of Boys Middle School Tennis and House Convenor at Haileybury Castlefield (Brighton). She is also Year 8 girls homeroom teacher and Physical Education and Wellbeing teacher for Years 3–9.
She feels fortunate to be able to combine teaching and tennis. “I enjoy supporting students as they grow both in and out of the classroom and encouraging them to seize every opportunity. I feel grateful to be part of the Haileybury community, where staff and students are so welcoming and supportive.”
She advises students who are trying to combine sporting ambitions with study to enjoy what they are doing and surround themselves with supportive networks. “Both your studies and sport should inspire you, not overwhelm you. Surround yourself with supportive people, stay organised, communicate openly and always remember your reasons for pursuing both,” she says.
Stephanie is also deeply grateful to her family, coaches and the school community who have supported her. Growing up in regional Victoria, her family would drive her long distances for competitions and coaching. “A heartfelt thank you to the Haileybury community for supporting me and allowing me to return to the US to accept this honour. I am extremely appreciative of the encouragement and recognition I have received,” she says.
