Steve Virgona, a native of Melbourne, Australia, grew up immersed in the vibrant sports culture of the city, engaging in Aussie Rules football and lawn tennis from a young age. His journey into real tennis began serendipitously when his lawn tennis coach, Doug Grant, a former professional at the Royal Melbourne Tennis Club, introduced him to the sport. Initially reluctant, Steve's curiosity was piqued after a visit to the club, and he soon found himself captivated by the complexity and challenge of real tennis.

By the age of 16, Steve had committed to real tennis, becoming an assistant to Mike Edwards at the Ballarat Tennis Club. His early years in the sport were marked by rapid development and a growing passion for the game. This led to his move to England, where he worked at Holyport and then with Nick Wood at Hampton Court Palace. Wood, an influential mentor, emphasized the importance of becoming both a top player and an excellent club professional, a philosophy that Steve embraced.

Steve's professional career took him across several prestigious clubs, including Middlesex University and the Harbor Club in Chelsea. At Middlesex, he faced the challenge of establishing a new club culture and attracting members. His time at the Harbor Club was marked by adapting to its unique setting with a low ceiling, which presented specific playing conditions.

In 2005, Steve moved to Philadelphia to work at the Racquet Club, where he further honed his skills and expanded his influence in the real tennis community. His tenure there was followed by a significant move to Chicago in 2012, where he played a pivotal role in restoring the court and growing the club's membership.

Throughout his career, Steve achieved remarkable success in both singles and doubles. He won the US Open Doubles in 1998 with Rory Gidden and later formed a dominant partnership with Rob Fahey, winning multiple World Doubles Championships. Steve's singles career was equally impressive, with notable victories and deep runs in major tournaments. His determination and fitness were critical, particularly in his epic battles against Camden Riviere, including a grueling 13-set final eliminator in 2010.

Steve's challenges for the World Championship in 2010 and 2012 showcased his competitive spirit and skill, though he ultimately fell short against Fahey. Despite these setbacks, he remained a top contender in the sport, continuously improving and adapting his game.

In recent years, Steve has focused on his role as a club professional in Chicago, nurturing the next generation of players and promoting the sport. His innovative approach to introducing real tennis, emphasizing enjoyment and gradual learning of the rules, has been instrumental in growing the club's community.

Steve's dedication to real tennis, both as a player and a professional, underscores his passion for the game. His journey from Melbourne to the global stage of real tennis is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and love for the sport. As he continues to contribute to the game, Steve's legacy as a player and mentor remains firmly established.