Over 60s Men’s – Division 2b
Team:
Singles: Nick Lodge, Jim Stubbs
Doubles: Russ Blenkinsop and Ed Benson (with one guest appearance by Gerry Radford).
We wondered what hit us when we came up against South Wales and Warwickshire, both provided particularly strong opposition and dispatched us 4-1…not helpful. Hampshire and IoW were solid throughout …they beat us 3-2. So after our first three matches we were 11 rubbers to 4 down and considering a season in division three next year. Can you imagine, a Notts. Team in division 3….the embarrassment!
Along came West of Scotland and Cheshire (thank goodness) with their much more ‘friendly’ approaches (we didn’t fall for that one) our 4-1 and 5-0 (respectively) victories secured us fourth place, relegation avoided…never in doubt!
Nick, at no. 1 singles, had another commendable season with 3/5 wins, (I didn’t), but it was Russ and Ed who were our salvation with a 70% win rate. Their commitment and enthusiasm were exemplary but personally I think it was the ‘I formation’ that was key…’I formation in over 60s Div.2…I didn’t think I’d see the day…I’m glad I did! Russ and Ed will provide joint captaincy of the team next year; I’m confident that they will be excellent; they wish to be known as the ‘I Team’ (but check with them first)!
….and Gerry had a cameo role…so that’s how you play doubles…Cheshire were so pleased to see him! Thanks (again) Gerry.
Seriously, it’s been an enjoyable ‘campaign’, I wish you well next year. With good leadership (that’s a given) and a positive team spirit (oh, and careful injury management), promotion should be a primary aim (alongside enjoyment). Good luck.
Thanks for making captaincy so easy. Jim