14 January 2014 | Tennis West

It was a picture postcard setting for the 2013 East Fremantle Junior Tennis Classic. With the Clubs twenty five courts at full capacity and the backdrop of the Swan River winding toward the Fremantle Harbour the stage was set for a great week of tennis and it proved to be just that.

The Fremantle Doctor saved the first day of play by sending a cool sea breeze across the courts just as players were starting to feel the summer heat. By day two players were looking like they were at home and could be found dolphin spotting from the balcony with a Culleys meat pie in hand.

Some North of the River participants had heard that after crossing the Fremantle Bridge, the streets would be purple. It was explained to them that it is true; the streets are purple in Fremantle, but only in September when the Dockers are in the final. The players did get to see some hippies and greenies south of the bridge and one swore they saw the Pav at the local deli. By day three they were feeling like locals.

Day four was a day of expectation, excitement and anticipation.  It was finals day. Players had come from all over the metropolitan region as well as from England, Geraldton and Esperance and some, like White Pointers after a shark cull, were still in the hunt. The standard of tennis was matched only by the standard of sportsmanship and players showed their class in the way they conducted themselves in and after the contest.

Tennis West Board member Joan Bonser and East Fremantle Lawn Tennis Club President Steve Burdett made presentations to the 77 winners and runners up. The players held trophies high and shone, as they stood before the throng of supporters, with cameras flashing to capture the moment as players were wished a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Many thanks to Meg Marshall  – ‘Co-Director’, Loretta Hughes – ‘Scheduling’, Jill Sheridan -‘Referee’, Space Realty  – ‘Major Sponsor’, Robyn McAullay  – ‘Canteen’, Peter Field  – ‘Drinks’, Michael Martinez – ‘Grounds’, Steve Burdett – ‘East Fremantle Lawn Tennis Club’, Joan Bonser – ‘Tennis West’ and to all the coaches, co-ordinators and people who help make the tournament a success.