In extremely cold and wet conditions in Hobart, the WA Pizzey cup team exceeded expectations by narrowly missing Bronze. At the completion of a gruelling week of matches, the fight for third and fourth placing was the closest in Pizzey cup history. Queensland and WA were even on rubbers and sets, with the difference being 24 games over the week’s ties. The team was disappointed, however, proud of their efforts and team spirit.
Managers Andrea Rundle, Simon Cockburn and Alison Kirk were extremely impressed with “Team Swannies” and repeated many times across the week that the enthusiasm and encouragement shared by all team members was outstanding. The group’s camaraderie was benefitting their results on court. Leading by example, the fearless three Captains, Meg Connell, Tim Gray and Ben Webster rallied around the players with team chants, dances and encouragement at all times. An example of team spirit came when Meg Connell defeated Victoria’s Danielle McIntosh, who hadn’t lost a Pizzey Cup singles in her 4 years of competition. Another highlight of the week was Tom Hann’s match against Tasmania. On and off the court over many hours due to rain and minus 2 degree temperature, Tom was in a must win position to defeat the home state. Tom won in convincing style and put the team in medal winning contention. Earlier in the day, team Tasmania, had an imposing lead of 8 rubbers to 4 over “Team Swannies” but WA fought back in style against Tassie’s strongest team in years.
During the week all players also competed in the Australia Cup singles. Tim Gray had the best results in the main draw gaining 7th position.
Not only were Captains Meg, Tim and Ben outstanding at their duties, all three received the honour of being chosen onto the All Australian Team.
Andrea Rundle was awarded a School Sport Australia Service Award for her ten years of organising Pizzey and Bruce Cups. WA tennis players are lucky to have Andrea to organise and travel with teams.
Special mention of Meg Connell, Sally Partington, Lachlan Napier and Marcus Bouckaert who were the only Year 12 students in the team and will be sadly missed next year.
Highlights off the court was the team trip to freezing Mount Wellington, the Cadburys factory, numerous dinners at the Hope and Anchor, socialising with opposition teams at the Presentation night, kidnapping other States mascots, and the sought after team dance.
School Sport WA would like to Thank Tennis West and Women in Tennis for their ongoing support of the Pizzey Cup event.
Latest
WA