Matching the performance of the Boys, Suffolk Girls’ 18 Under team did themselves proud in the Aegon Junior Inter-County Cup at Bidston recently in a strong Division 6. 4 of the players were still under 14, and many were making their debuts. The team fought back from 1-3 down on the opening day, the result being decided by the number one doubles, Ella Monsey and Hannah Vickers coming through on a 3rd set tie-break, giving the team confidence for the rest of the weekend. After beating the Channel Islands 8-1, it all came down to the final day, when again after 3-3 in the Single, it all came down to the very last doubles ! This time it was the number three doubles, which Nia Braidford and Florence Kenworthy also won on a 3rd set tie-break, and so after the disappointment of being relegated last year, the team responded magnificently in achieving promotion and going straight back up.
Despite the wintery weather, the AGM of the Suffolk Lawn Tennis Association was held on March 11th at Rushmere Golf Club Sally Pearson outlined the LTA objectives as linked to the County Plan, which was covered in detail by Chairman Mike Watling. The following officers were elected :-
President: Bill Curtis
Chairman: Mike Watling
Vice-Chairman: Julia Walters
Hon.Secretary: Sheelagh Watts
Hon.Ass.Secretary: Peter Mornard
Hon.Treasurer: Robert Brown
Hon.Ass. Treasurer: Barbara Miles.
Mike Watling highlighted the success of our County teams at all levels, especially our Men who very nearly won promotion to Group One. The Veterans too had done well, travelling many miles to play a number of their matches. The Easter Weekend sees the 18th Annual Suffolk Indoor Open Veterans’ Tournament at the Ipswich Sports Club from Thursday 28th March to Monday lst April inclusive. Competitors are reminded that the entries close this Saturday, March 16th, and can be submitted online at ww.lta.org.uk – competition reference SUF13S4571, or via Steve Pilcher at 2, Cranwell Grove, Grange Farm, Kesgrave, nr Ipswich, IP5 2YN (01473-614229)