Last week history was made on the grass courts of Albury NSW at the Bruce Cup Australian School Sport 12’s tennis competition, after the WA team finished Silver Medallists – the best result in WA Bruce Cup history.
WA have never beaten Victoria so were spurred on by the 16 rubbers to 8 win. The team went on to defeat the exceptionally strong NSW team and had convincing wins over South Australia, Tasmania, ACT and the Northern Territory. The only loss of the week was at the hands of the ultimate champions, Queensland. In the best result in WA history, WA bought home silver medals and displayed exceptional skills, team work and fighting spirit.
Off the court, Team WA proved popular with players and parents from all states, and were keen to share their “Cha-Cha Slide” warm-up dance. Team mascot “WASSA the Swan” had some interesting adventures around the city and ended up at the Police Station after ACT kidnapped him. All other state coaches commented on the sportsmanship displayed by our players in both winning and losing situations.
Eleven year old Abbi Gibson of Albany topped off a sensational week by winning the Australian Singles event which is played parallel to the teams event. In another coup for WA, Derek Pham finished Runner-up in the Boys Singles. Ella Nurkic and Kent Yamazaki were consolation runners up. Excellent result all around for WA tennis.
Congratulations to the following players; Abbi Gibson, Shanelle Iaconi, Jessie Culley, Taylah Preston, Ella Nurkic, Sannvi Tak, Paris Henson, Derek Pham, Zach Viiala, Josh Blundell- Williams, Kent Yamazaki, Sam English, James Newton, Zach Melanie.
Parents, coaches, clubs and family of all these players are to be acknowledged for their contribution to the incredible results.
A special thank you goes to Andrea Rundle, Alison Kirk and Brad Ladyman, School Sport WA, Tennis West, the player’s coaches, parents and the extended tennis family for their support.
All results and placings can be viewed here.
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