26 teams from 10 clubs - A & M Coddenham, Culford, Felixstowe, Haverhill, Lavenham, Newmarket, Red Lodge, Sproughton, Woodbridge, and Wortham, took part in the Suffolk Junior Winter League which began in October and culminated in a competitive Finals Day on 23 February at Ipswich Sports Club. In each age category two groups - East and West played throughout the winter – the final was a play off between the group winners. The standard of play was really high at all levels and there were some very close and tense matches. Each match included two singles and a doubles. Results were: 16U Lavenham bt Woodbridge 2-1; 14U Haverhill bt A&M Coddenham 2-1; 12U Wortham bt Woodbridge 3-0. Well done to all who took part – the future of tennis in Suffolk looks good! An added bonus on the day was Elena Baltacha taking time out to drop in and see the boys play and to give them her support and a photo opportunity.
Thank you to Suffolk LTA for sponsoring the event through the Stimulus fund. Each age group finalist received a medal and the winners also received certificates, perpetual trophies and a cheque for £100 for their clubs to use to enhance their junior programmes. Thanks also to Julia Waters, Isobel Hunter, Emily Wharton and Martin Orton for organising the League.
It is hoped that, having seen the success of the leagues this year, more clubs will enter teams for the 2013 winter season which will be a great follow on from the Aegon team summer tennis.