Unfortunately I start this week with the sad news that Ted Brooks, a vice-president of the club, died last Wednesday (12th) after a very long illness. At last Ted is at rest and the thoughts of all members who knew him, his wife Jan and children Gary and Sarah will be thinking of them and the good times we had in the 1980s. Ted was Treasurer for several years and always had the good of Albany at heart. The funeral is in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire on 3rd January. I don’t think anyone will be in that area at that time, but it would be nice if someone could attend on behalf of the club. It’s family flowers only but donations if so wished can be sent to the Alzheimer’s Society, c/o Allen and Sons, Funeral Directors, High Street, Moreton in Marsh, Glos. GL56 0AF. The club will obviously send a donation.
This Saturday club coach, Ian Watson, will be running his usual Christmas party for the Juniors. You need to put your name on the list or contact Ian by Friday. The party is from 10am-2pm, is a team event plus quiz and you need to take a packed lunch. Cost is £5 and it’s indoors so won’t be affected by the weather – and Mum's and Dad's can go off and finish the Christmas shopping. Don’t forget the new Albany Auxesia juniors shirts are available – cost £10 and would make a nice extra gift.
There will be a break in Junior’s club coaching over the holiday and it will restart once schools re-open. Details will be announced later. Still there is nothing to stop Juniors going to the club to play, weather permitting of course, but remember it’s a club rule that children under 13yrs must have an adult in attendance.
Good luck to some of our Juniors who will be competing in the UK during the holiday. Sarah Long has gained a place in the12&U Nationals at Bolton Arena on 27th December. This will be a tough competition but I’m sure she’ll give it her best shot. Good luck Sarah. Don’t forget to send me your match details (i.e. opponents and scores). Also, I’m told that Mini Tennis (red ball) players Magnus and Millicent Benson are off on their travels again, Best wishes to them – don’t forget to send in your results as well.
Two of our top players who were excellent players as Juniors and left the island to progress in their careers, Billy and Katie Harris, are home for Christmas. They are still club members so some of us may see them playing during the holiday. Worth watching.
Finally, best wishes to every member for Christmas and 2019. May you all stay healthy, fit and successful.