20 February 2025 | Tennis West

There were more upsets and some statement making wins over Round 8 of the men’s and women’s State League. 

The women’s State League saw a massive shakeup with ladder leaders Hensman Park succumbing to Cottesloe, leaving the race for top spot open while Dalkeith made it two wins from two and keeping their finals chances alive. In the men’s, Royal Kings Park jumped Alexander Park for fourth spot while Cottesloe and Peppermint Grove continued on their winning ways. 

Key match up’s this round: 

MEN’S: 

Peppermint Grove v Cottesloe at Peppermint Grove Tennis Club 

Friday 21 February, 6.00 pm 

Could this match be a preview for the final? The two teams have been impressive this season, showing incredible depth in their squads. Cottesloe has also been consistent, regularly playing with the same players with the addition of Scott Webster at times when available plus doubles specialist Adam Kehane. Cottesloe’s doubles performances have been the key to this season’s success, only losing one doubles match. 

For Peppermint Grove, the team has had a good number of quality players representing the club this season with players such as Jayden Court and Ethan Cook playing when available along with regulars, Tim Gray, Sam Ashenden, Vuk Velickovic and Sam Chapman. Tim Gray is the form player, currently with a three-game winning streak. 

Last time these two teams met, bad light stopped any chances of a result at Cottesloe Tennis Club with the rubbers locked at two apiece. Scott Webster and Max Weir grabbed wins for Cottesloe while Vuk Velickovic and Sam Ashenden won two three set match tie-breaks. The team that wins this clash tomorrow will take top spot and most likely secure themselves a home final against the fourth ranked team in the finals. 

 

WOMEN’S: 

Hensman Park v Dalkeith at Hensman Park Tennis Club 

Friday 21 February, 6.00 pm 

A few weeks ago, it may have looked like this matchup was going to be one sided, however recent form suggests it could be closer than we think. Dalkeith is the in-form team of the women’s competition, winning their last two matches to sit just a few points outside the top four. Dalkeith will have a lot to play for, attempting to grab fourth place while Hensman Park will be out to respond after a shock loss at home to Cottesloe. Last week’s loss means Hensman need to win their remaining two matches to hold onto top spot. 

After a slow start to the year, Dalkeith’s Hayley Burton has been the standout, winning her last four singles matches, playing in the second and third seeded position. Ali Connell has also been in form, only losing once since early November. 

Hensman Park’s Alice Stevens continues to be the standout in the competition. Last season’s MVP Stevens is yet to lose a match this season, playing in the number one spot. The team also boasts some incredible young talent in Jaun Yum and Karin Hiramatsu while also mixing with experienced players such as Anja Dokic and Ella Nurkic. Last time these two teams met, Hensman Park came to play at Dalkeith, winning 6-0. 

 

Round 9 Fixtures: 

MEN’S: 

Friday 21 February, 6.00 pm 

Peppermint Grove v Cottesloe at Peppermint Grove Tennis Club 

UWA v Royal Kings Park at UWA Tennis Club 

Saturday 22 February, 1.00 pm 

Alexander Park v Mt Lawley/Sorrento at Alexander Park Tennis Club 

 

WOMEN’S: 

Friday 21 February, 6.00 pm 

Hensman Park v Dalkeith at Hensman Park Tennis Club 

Saturday 22 February, 1.00 pm 

Cottesloe v Peppermint Grove at Peppermint Grove Tennis Club 

Royal Kings Park v Alexander Park at Royal Kings Park Tennis Club