Club Championships

 

2023 Club Champs

The SHTC club champs for 2023 are:

Open Doubles: George Batziakas and Dylan Edgley

Women’s Singles: Yuko Ema

Men’s Singles: George Batziakas

For a full report, go to 🎾 2023 SHTC Club Championships🏆

2020-2022 : No play

2019 Club Champs

With the slight change in formats (round-robin) and more importantly, for all players to make themselves available over the weekends, we were able to complete all three competitions within a month.

 

Thanks to all for taking part, with special mention to the “fans” who came to watch, to Pierre for organising the BBQ and Jeff Greening for doing the presentations.

 

Details for 2019 are:

 

Men’s Singles (18 players across 4 groups, 26 round-robin matches – top 2 of each group through to the Quarter Finals)

 

Winner: Rod Bernabe (6-2/6-4) – Neil Maher Trophy and $100 voucher

 

Runner-up: Willy Kosasih – $50 voucher

 

Played in front of died-hard fans (4), Rod and Willy battled close to 1 1/2 hours with Rod prevailing in straight sets. Willy played with his usual gritty game style and kept the rallies going in order to force the errors from Rod. Unfortunately most ended up going to Ros’s strenth – the forehand – which he was able to put away to shorten the rallies.

 

Women’s Singles (5 players in 1 group, 7 matches – top 2 direct to Grand Final)

 

Winner: Mel Wundersitz (7-6/7-5) – Marie Mcgloughlin Trophy and $100 voucher

 

Runner-up: Brenda Gao – $50 voucher

 

Definitely a bigger crowd than the Men’s Final, quite pleasing to see especially as it was played on a mid-week afternoon, and the game did not disappoint.

 

For over 2 hours Mel and Brenda slugged it out on Court 2 in near perfect tennis conditions. Mel came out of the blocks firing on all cylinders (in particular her forehand), racing off to a 5-1 lead in quick time. However Brenda soon nullified Mel’s groundstrokes as she counter-punched and played some wonderful rallies, fighting back to level at 5 all in under an hour. Brenda continued her fight back by Breaking Mel one more time to lead 6-5 and serve for the set. Mel had other ideas and broke back before taking the set in a tie-break. The second set was another close tussle, with play lasting nearly an hour and Mel winning both the second set and the match.

 

Men’s Doubles (5 teams in 1 group, 10 matches – top 2 direct to the Grand Final)

 

Winner: Dylan Edgley/Sam Cohen (7-5/6-2) – Keith Young Trophy and $50 voucher each

 

Runners-up: Rod Bernabe/Willy Kosasih – $25 voucher each

 

The first set was tight with both teams playing rather well, with very few breaks in serve. Rod and Willy tried desperately to negate Dylan and Sam’s powerful games but fell just short in the first set. In the second set Dylan and Sam put on a doubles masterclass. Rod and Willy were simply outclassed and struggled to keep pace. Dylan and Sam were, in the end, too good and defended their 2018 crown by winning in straight sets.

 

Thanks to Rod Bernabe for organising the Club Championships once again, we look forward to seeing even more players next year.

 

 

 

Men’s Champs 2017

 

Rod Bernabe reports

 

After a little delay due to the constant drizzle on Sunday, the Grand Final matches finally got underway just after 1:30pm.

 

First up, the Women’s Singles GF between Mel Wundersitz and Trudy Micallef, in which Mel successfully defended her title.

 

On the other court, the Men’s doubles between Rod Bernabe/Willy Kosasih and Eric Cao/Louie Liu was a tightly fought match, with Rod and Willy prevailing in 3 sets.

 

After a brief rest, the second set of matches were played, with Kerry/Mel Wundersitz playing against Anne Goodrich/Kathy Cameron. Another good match, won in straight sets by the defending champions in Kerry and Mel.

 

The last match of the day was the Men’s Singles GF between Trystan Martin and Rod Bernabe. Trystan was too strong in the end winning in straight sets.

 

Congratulations to all the players and a huge thank you to the members, family and friends who came over to cheer the players on.

 

And of course, a special mention to Pierre Rizzi, who takes the unofficial “club-person” of the year award for feeding the crowd with sausages, and be on deck to hand out the trophies! Thanks Pierre.

 

So our 2017 Club Champions are:

 

Women’s

 

  1. The Marie McGloughlin Trophy : Melissa Wundersitz
  2. The Taylor Wundersitz Trophy : Kerry Wundersitz & Melissa Wundersitz

 

Men’s

 

  1. The Neil Maher Trophy : Trystan Martin
  2. The Keith Young Trophy : Rod Bernabe & Willy Kosasih

 

Looking forward to next year’s comp already!

 

The SHTC 2017 Club championships kicked off the weekend of August 26 with a great turn out of over 40 members participating across Singles and Doubles competitions.

 

For the Women’s, there were 9 competing in knock out singles, and 5 teams in a round-robin doubles.

 

For the Men’s, there were 18 singles and 12 doubles in a knock out format.

 

As with previous years, matches were organised by the competitors instead of having all matches over a set weekend.

 

[The Grand Finals are scheduled for Sunday, 22nd October, from 1pm.].

 

Update: Week 4

 

After 4 weeks of competition, both the Men’s and Women’s Singles are mainly at the Semi-Final stages.

 

Women’s Singles

 

  • Trudy Micallef and Claire Bernabe battled for 3 hrs in a very close Semi-final match, with Trudy advancing to the Grand Final, winning 6-7,6-4,6-3.
  • Trudy now meets the winner of the match between Mel Wundersitz and Margaret Maughan in the other Semi-final

 

Women’s Doubles

 

  • With 5 teams playing a round-robin format, each team will at least get a chance to play 4 games, with the top 2 advancing directly to the Grand Final.
  • Due to travel commitments and school holidays, the teams have done a great job in organising the matches, but there’s still 6 of the 10 matches to go.

 

Men’s Singles

 

  • Rod Bernabe and Michael Tendler fought for 3 hrs in another close Semi-Finals singles match, with Rod progressing through to the Grand Final in 3 sets, 1-6, 6-3, 7-6
  • Due to several wash outs, the other half of the draw still has 2 matches to be played to decide the other Grand Finalist.

 

Men’s Doubles

 

  • 3 teams are now in the Semi-Finals, with more matches to be played over the coming weekend.

 

 

 

In all, the competition has progressed very well, and with the exception perhaps of the Women’s doubles, we’re on schedule to have the Grand Finals on 22/October. Hope to see a large contingent of  members at the finals!

 

Men’s Champs 2016

 

Congratulations to Rod Bernabe and Trystan Martin who won the final of the Men’s doubles against Sam Cohen and Dylan Edgley, 6-2, 6-1.

 

      

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1481358843514/club-championships-1/image1.JPG?height=171&width=200

 

Rod Bernabe and Trystan Martin

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1481358849561/club-championships-1/image2.JPG?height=198&width=200

 

Sam Cohen and Dylan Edgley

 

 

Women’s Champs 2016

 

And the winner is…..Melissa Wundersitz. Melissa won the final 6-1, 6-3 against Hannah Castles.

 

It is Melissa’s second Marie McGloughlin trophy as she continues the tradition of Wundersitz champions.

 

The Women’s doubles final for the Taylor Wundersitz trophy has been won by Kerry and Melissa Wundersitz.

 

They defeated Trudy Micalef and Hannah Castles 6-4, 6-1.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1480556125224/club-championships-1/Wundersitz%202016.jpg?height=200&width=196

 

The Women’s singles final for the Marie McGloughlin Trophy is set with Melissa Wundersitz to take on Hannah Castles in a repeat of the final from 2014.

 

A huge thank you to all those who take part. Without you the event would not take place and the Club would be without part of its history.

 

Although some of the matches were one sided all reports commented on the enjoyment had by both players and the spirit of the matches.

 

We look forward to a hard fought final.

 

 

 

Men’s Champs 2015

 

The Men’s singles final for the Neil Maher Trophy was held last night between Felix Best and Trystan Martin.

 

Tristan played some great tennis but couldn’t hold off Felix in a quality final.

 

Felix won 6-3, 6-2, but had to find a way around Trystan’s penetrating backhand with several games having deuce after deuce points.

 

The 2015 Keith Young Trophy for men’s doubles was held last week after not being completed in 2014.

 

In the Semi Final, Felix and John Best won through to the final with a tight match against Josh Tebb and David Lyons.

 

In the other Semi Paul Weinert and Ben Thrift took on Trystan Martin and Rod Bernabe. They had a close first set before Rod and Trystan were able to pull away.

 

In the final Rod and Trystan started well and looked set to run away from Felix and John Best after winning the first set 6-3.

 

However after some tactical discussion between the father and son and some heated words, they jumped to a 3-0 lead in the second set.

 

Rod and Trystan dug their heals in to stop the momentum and the teams were tied at 5 games all, before Rod and Trystan won two long tight games to take the set 7-5 and the title for 2015.

 

The singles Title will between Felix Best and the winner of Trystan Martin and Paul Katz.

 

As soon as the Singles final is complete we will begin to organise the 2016 events.

 

We will be particularly keen to get the women’s events played for 2016, so please let us know if you can play.

 

Thanks to Felix Best for running the events.

 

 

 

Men’s Champs 2014

 

The Final for 2014 has been held with the finalists the same as in 2012.

 

Finau Fa back to back winner and going for a threepeat, took on Felix Best winner in 2010, in a rematch of the final from 2012 which Finau won in 3 sets.

 

This match also went to 3 sets with Felix reversing the result and winning the final 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 to take his second title.

 

Thanks to Craig Chester for organising the event and to all those who took part.

 

We look forward to the 2015 event which will start very soon.

 

The Men’s Championships are progressing well.

 

At the top of the singles draw, Finau Fa has reached the semis, but there are a couple of matches to be completed before he has an opponent.

 

At the bottom of the draw Felix Best has also reached the semis and awaits the winner of the match between Trystan Martin and Craig Chester.

 

In the doubles, progress is a bit slower, with Finau Fa and Tim Olynik through to the semis, but no other quarter finals have been played.

 

Thanks to Craig Chester for his patience in running the event.

 

 

 

Women’s Champs 2014

 

Congratulations to Melissa Wundersitz who beat Hannah Castles in the final of the Women’s Championships to take the Marie McGloughlin South Hawthorn tennis Club Singles trophy.

 

Finalist from 2013 Melissa played great tennis to break through for a great win.

 

She has added to the great traditions of the Wundersitz and Taylor families as the fourth winner of a singles trophy from her family.

 

In the doubles final, Melissa and Kerry Wundersitz took on Hannah and Barbara Castles and took their 3rd trophy.

 

The trophy named after Kerry and her mother Myrtle Taylor further added to the Taylor Wundersitz history at South Hawthorn.

 

3/8/14

 

The Women’s Championships has made some progress after a long wait.

 

Charmaine Kong had a very solid win in her singles match against Katrina Grillakis.

 

Hannah Castles surprised herself more than anyone, taking out the winner from the last 2 years in Caitlin Kennedy 6/2, 6/0.

 

This ensure we will have a first time winner this year with Hannah taking on the winner of Charmaine Kong and Mellissa Wundersitz.

 

In the doubles Alisa and Anne Goodrich took on another mother daughter combination in Hannah and Barbara Castles. In a fantastic close match the Castles won 6/4. 7/6.

 

They will take on the winner of Mellissa and Kerry Wundersitz vs Caitlin Kennedy and Jess Longmuir.

 

 

 

Men’s Champs 2013

 

16/2/14

 

The Finals of the Men’s Championships were played today with Finau Fa winning his second Neil Maher Trophy with a powerful display of tennis. Despite playing some great shots, Michael Tendler wasn’t able to find a chink in Finau’s armour with Finau hitting many winners.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1392541138495/club-championships-1/Mens%20singles%20finalists%202013%2C14%20lo.jpg?height=400&width=226

 

In the Doubles final for the Keith Young Trophy, Brenton Smith and Trystan Martin were way too strong for Charles Carty and Marcus Scott.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1392541391839/club-championships-1/Mens%20Doubles%202013%20lo.jpg?height=400&width=368

 

Another successful Championship completed albeit slightly late. Thanks to Craig Chester and John Best for running the event.

 

8/12/13    Craig Chester reports on the progress of the Men’s Championships.

 

 

 

Singles Results:

 

New to SHTC, Ed ‘Silver Fox’ Smithers has had a very strong tournament, taking out past champ Charlie Carty in a cracking 3 set match before falling just short in 3 sets against the #1 seed Finau. So we now have a final for the Singles. Mike Tendler has charged into the final against Finau. He had another come from behind win in his Semi , and given Finau showed the stumbles against the ‘Silver Fox’, the fait accompli many thought 4 or 5 weeks ago is far from such.

 

 

 

Next Match:

 

2013 South Hawthorn Tennis Club Men’s Singles Final

 

Finau Fa (1) v Michael Tendler – Time TBA

 

 

 

Doubles Results:

 

Just the one completed match with Finau & Tim defeating Rod and Ed 6-3, 6-4.

 

 

 

Next Matches:

 

Finau Fa & Tim (1) v Charlie & Marcus – Time TBA

 

Trystan Martin & Brenton v John Best & Craig Chester – Time TBA

 

The Men’s Championships kicked off on the weekend with Rod Bernabe taking on last years winner Finau Fa. Finau is red hot favourite to go back to back this year, but Rod pushed him all the way losing the first set in a tiebreaker.  Finau won the second set easily but could there be a chink in the armour??

 

 

 

Women’s 2013 Doubles Champs

 

We finally have a winner of the Taylor Wundersitz Trophy for 2013.

 

Melissa Wundersitz and Hannah Castles defeated Margaret Maughan and Liz Henderson in the final.

 

Melissa won the trophy ( named after her Mother Kerry and Grandmother Myrtle Taylor ) for the third time, the first time with Club President Hannah Castles.

 

It took a while for the final to be played, almost 4 months, but it goes to show how flexible we are with the running of these events. We would rather have the event take all year, as long as it allows lots of entries in the championships, so we look forward to even more participants next year.

 

Women’s 2013 Singles and Doubles Championships

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1370912721948/club-championships-1/2013%20Finalists%203.jpg?height=400&width=215

 

Melissa Wundersitz and Caitlin Kennedy Finalists for 2013

 

11/6/13    The Final of the Women’s singles for 2013 was played on Saturday in perfect conditions, between last years winner Caitlin Kennedy and first time finalist, Melissa Wundersitz. In a tight first set both girls played some terrific tennis with Melissa holding 3 set points at 5/4, before Caitlin levelled and sent them into a tie break. Melissa held it together and managed to win the tie break and the first set. Caitlin played solid tennis in the second set and levelled the match by winning the second set 6/1.

 

In the final set Caitlin was too consistent for Melissa and took the trophy for the second year. The trophy was presented to Caitlin by club President Hannah Castles who thanked all who took part in the event for 2013. The event was played over 3 months with players being left to organise their own matches, which meant that players were able to fit in with their own commitments and we had more games played. We look forward to the event for 2014 attracting even more players.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1370912800252/club-championships-1/Champ%202013.jpg?height=274&width=400

 

Caitlin Kennedy receives the trophy from Hannah Castles

 

26/4/13        More matches have been completed in both singles and doubles and we have our first singles finalist in last years winner, Caitlin Kennedy. Caitlin took on talented junior Charmaine Kong in the semi final and won 6-1, 7-6.

 

Charmaine has played Junior Pennant for Eastern region and grade one juniors, while Caitlin has been playing mixed doubles competition on Saturday afternoons. Caitlin’s game has strengthened playing against the men and her experience told in the end. She commented after the game on the improvement in Charmaine’s tennis, saying “her shots were more dangerous than mine” but she just lacked a little bit of consistency, going for bigger shots and attacking at the wrong times.

 

She will definitely be someone to beat in the future.

 

In the doubles semi final, the combination of one of last years doubles winners, Melissa Wundersitz and Club President Hannah Castles had a tough match against Charmaine Kong and Laura Siddons. They eventually won 6-2, 7-5.

 

22/4/13     Women’s singles & Doubles Championships are under way and we have seen a number of matches completed.

 

This year we have made a draw and left players to organise their own matches. This makes it easier for players to arrange their schedule and take part in the events. As a result we have had solid numbers entered in both the Women’s Singles for theMarie McGloughlin trophy and in the Doubles for the Taylor Wundersitz Trophy. The Doubles trophy will be presented for the first time and is named after Life Members, Myrtle Taylor and Kerry Wundersitz. Myrtle worked on the Committee for many years along with her husband Bruce Taylor and their daughter Kerry Wundersitz is one of the greatest contributors to our club.

 

 

Men’s 2012 Singles and Doubles Championships

 

6/12/12    The Finals of the Men’s Championships in both singles and doubles were played last Sunday. In the singles final Finau Fa took on Felix Best and both played some high quality tennis. Finau stunned Felix in the first set, smashing the ball around the court and hitting lines at will. Felix was unable to make a dint in Finau’s serve and was just trying to slow things down and wait for Finau to come off the boil. Before they knew it Finau had closed out the first set 6 games to 2. In the second set Felix regrouped and his tactics of trying to slow things down and take the pace off the ball started to pay off. Finau started to miss some shots and he started to go for less allowing Felix to extend the rallies and take control. Felix held on to win the second set and it was anybody’s match in the last set. The first three games of the final set could have gone either way, but Finau won all three and from there he was too strong for Felix to catch and went on to win the Final set 6/1 and take the championship.

 

Congratulations to Finau Fa Men’s Champion for 2012

 

After a short break for the presentation of the Neil Maher Trophy, Finau was back on the court to partner Tim Olynyk in the Men’s Doubles Final for the Keith Young Trophy. They took on last year’s runners up in Craig Chester and John Best.

 

In the first set Finau and Tim got off to a strong start, Craig and John played some good tennis, but were unable to put enough pressure on thier opponents to make an impact on the scoreboard. Tim And Finau won the first set easily 6/2.

 

In the second set Craig and John again played some good tennis and though the set was much closer, Tim and Finau had too much class and power taking the set 6/4 and winning the Championship.

 

Thanks to Craig Chester and John Best for organising the event again this year. Their idea of making a draw and then giving players a week to organise a match with their opponents at a mutually agreeable time, proved a great success.

 

The Championships go from strength to strength at our club, with more entries in both events and better quality and depth in the draws.

 

Thank you to all those who played and we look forward to welcoming even more players next year.

 

19/11/12   After the weekends matches we have the finalists for the Singles and the semi finalists of the Doubles decided.

 

Craig Chester reports on the Championships

 

We are down to the business end for those still following the Club Championships. Stay tuned for the date and times of the finals. Unfortunately we cannot play this week due to player availability. At this stage looking like 1st of December. We hope many of you who generously gave up your time to play can come down to watch.

 

 

 

Men’s Singles Final 2012

 

Felix Best (2) v Finau Fa

 

 

 

Men’s Doubles Final 2012

 

Craig Chester & John Best (2) v winner of Mark Tillman & Trystan Martin v Finau Fa & Tim Olynyk

 

 

 

SINGLES RESULTS

 

·         Felix re-established himself as this year’s favourite with great wins over Mark Tillman in the Quarters, and then Trystan Martin in the Semi’s. Although competitive, both scorelines a little ominous for the awaiting Finau in the men’s final. Expecting a cracking match.

 

 

 

DOUBLES RESULTS

 

·         John Best & Craig Chester defeated Charlie & Tom Bishop to reach the final. I think Charlie & Tom gave Craig & John far more credit for their ability than they deserved and just didn’t finish them off (constantly pinned to the baseline, plenty of frames). Maybe the one that got away. A fun match played in good spirit.

 

 

 

THIS WEEK

 

·         One match in the doubles to play before the finals. Trystan & Mark to play Finau & Tim. And then finals await.

 

 

 

Stay tuned for final details.

 

Another weekend of matches in the club championships have delivered some very interesting results.

 

In the Singles Championships we have our first finalist for the year with Finau Fa going through with a hard fought win over last years Champion Kebbie Kirkcaldie Bowell. Finau who plays for our best night team, the Tuesday night Berocca’s, was always going to be a tough opponent for Kebbie and there was some quality tennis required to get him through with a 7-5 6-0 win. In the other half of the draw the progress has been slower as we try to get matches organised. Trystan Martin had a 3 set win over Craig Chester and is through to the semis where he will play the winner of Felix Best and Mark Tillman.

 

In the doubles we had another great match between last year Champions, Michael Tendler and Dylan Edgley and Finau Fa and Tim Olynik. Finau and Tim won the match in 3 sets and are firm favourites for the title. Again we have a log jam in the other half of the draw, but look forward to completing several matches next weekend and leaving ourselves with just the finals to complete.

 

The Men’s Club Championships will be held over the next month, with a knock out draw having been made and players left to arrange their own matches. As each round is completed players can then arrange their next match in the draw. This arrangement is working well, as players are not locked in to playing on a specific day and can work around other commitments. As a result we have had a great response and an excellent field in both singles and doubles.

 

In the singles there are just a few matches to be completed in the first round, with some close matches including a close 3 set win to Michael Tendler over past Champion Charlie Carty. Great to see some of our juniors taking part with James McNab playing well in his match before going down to Craig Chester. We love to see lots of players taking part and meeting other members of the club.

 

We hope to get lots of matches played over Cup weekend and getting to the final matches later in November.

 

In the doubles event we will be playing for the first time for the “Keith Young Trophy”. The club has struck a new Trophy for the Men’s Doubles and named it after one of our Life Members in Keith Young. You can find out more about Keith in the Club History Section, he made a huge contribution to the club over many years. We had a number of old trophies in our Trophy cabinet and decided to reinvent one of them for the men’s doubles. It will be great to be able to present such a piece of history to the winners of the event this year.

 

Many thanks to Craig Chester and John Best in once again running these great club events.

 

 

Women’s 2012 Singles and Doubles Championships

 

22/4/12    Caitlin Kennedy made her third Finals appearance today in the Women’s singles Championship, this time winning her first Marie McLoughlin trophy. Caitlin proved too consistent for Hannah Castles who was playing her first final.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1351736981330/club-championships-1/Women%27s%20Singles%202012.jpg?height=400&width=190

 

In the doubles event Kerry and Melissa Wundersitz were too strong for Mary Anne Grylakis and Fiona Sexton who played some great tennis in their semi final and the final.

 

Thanks to all who took part in the event, which was played in great spirit, with all who took part commenting on how much they enjoyed playing.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1351737242207/club-championships-1/Women%27s%20Doubles%202012.jpg?height=274&width=400

 

Men’s 2011 Singles and Doubles Championships

 

10/3/12    Michael Tendler and Dylan Edgley won the Men’s Doubles Championship for 2011 last weekend. The Final had been delayed several times since the semis had been decided last November.

 

Finally last weekend Michael and Dylan took to the court against Craig Chester and John Best winning the final 6-4, 6-4.

 

In perfect conditions there was some great tennis played and despite Craig and John playing some of their best tennis for the tournament, they always seemed to be chasing but never quite catching Michael and Dylan. Thanks to all those who took part in the tournament and we look forward to more teams taking part later this year in the 2012 event.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1331353132259/club-championships-1/Mens%20doubles%202011.jpg?height=203&width=400

 

5/12/11    Kebbie Kirkcaldie Bowell took out the “Neil Maher Trophy” for 2011 with an impressive and tenacious display of tennis over Keiran McNamara.

 

Kebbie played strong tennis but also used his patience to win the match.

 

Thanks to all those who took part in the Championships and thanks to Craig Chester and John Best for organising the event.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1323168548472/club-championships-1/Champs%20before.jpg?height=400&width=237

 

26/11/11    Kebbie Kirkcaldie Bowell won his semi final convincingly to advance to the Final against Keiran McNamara who will play his first Final for the Singles Championships.

 

30/10/11    The Championships are nearing completion after some fantastic tennis over the last few weeks.

 

In the singles Kebbie Kirkcaldie-Bowell is powering through his half of the draw and will play Craig Chester in the semi final. In the other semi final Michael Tendler will play Keiran McNamara.

 

In the Doubles Dylan Edgley and Michael Tendler will play Craig Chester and John Best in the final.

 

Thank you to Craig Chester and John Best for organising the event.

 

We look forward to more entries next year especially in the doubles which has seen some fantastic matches and spirited contests.

 

6/10/11  The Men’s Club Championships will be held over the next month, with the finals taking place on the Sunday of the AGM.  We will try to play matches on Sunday afternoons, but will be flexible in playing matches at other times if players are unavailable.  To enter e-mail Craig Chester at Craig.Chester@au.hjheinz.com and please include your mobile phone # and prefered e-mail address.

 

Women’s 2011 Singles and doubles Championships

 

17/4/11    Yesterday was a beautiful day for the final of the Women’s Club Championships.

 

Kerrie Clarke, an experienced and accomplished player, took on last years runner up Caitlin Kennedy.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1303023229192/club-championships-1/2011%20singles.jpg?height=320&width=195

 

Both girls are quick and athletic around the court and extremely competitive, with neither girl giving an easy point.

 

Kerrie started well, getting out to an early lead, before Caitlin found some rythm and made Kerrie work hard to close out the first set 6-3.

 

Caitlin played her best match for the championships, serving well and making fewer errors than in her previous games. Every game in the second set was close and several games had 5 or more deuce points.

 

While Caitlin was able to match it with Kerrie at the baseline, she struggled to pass her, when she came to the net and Kerrie had the better all around game.

 

In the end Kerrie held Caitlin out and won the second set and the championship 6-3, 6-4.

 

Congratulations to both girls and thanks to all who took part in this years event. It is a fun event to take part in and a good way to meet people at the club and get involved. We hope to have even more entries in 2012.

 

10/4/11 The 2011 Women’s Doubles final was held this afternoon between Kerry and Melissa Wundersitz and Jade and Renee Sheary. With the occasional shower interrupting, the match was a see-saw affair. Jade and Renee started very well hitting the ball solidly and anticipating well at the net. In contrast,

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1302416968740/club-championships-1/2011%20Doubles%20final%20.jpg?height=193&width=320

 

Kerry and Melissa were very slow to get going and struggled to find a rythm against the Sheary’s solid game. Jade and Renee won the first set 6-3.

 

The second set saw the Wundersitz’s find their games and with Melissa hitting her big forehand drives and Kerry her trademark sliced backhand the tables turned in the match and the Sheary girls struggled to retain their confidence and aggression. Kerry and Melissa closed out the second set 6-2.

 

In the final set the experience and consistency of the Wundersitz’s shone out and they won the set and the championship 3-6, 6-2, 6-3.

 

Congratulations to Kerry and Melissa and thanks to all the women who took part in the event.

 

It is great to see members taking part in events like these, whether they win or just take part. It is a great way to meet other members and to have some fun competition.

 

Thanks also to John Best and Craig Chester for running the event.

 

10/4/11    Icy conditions greeted Caitlin Kennedy and Jade Sheary in their semi final this morning. The match was very close at the start, with Catlin’s first service game going to 6 deuce points, before she was able to win the game. Then Jade struggled with her serve and just couldn’t find a way around Caitlin. Caitlin mixed her shots well, never giving Jade a chance to find her rhythm. Caitlin’s serve improved and Jade made too many unforced errors as she tried to put more pressure on. In the end Caitlin’s patience and variety won out and she won the match 6-2, 6-3.

 

Caitlin will now meet Kerry Clarke in the final for the “Marie McLoghlin Trophy”.

 

9/4/11    Very windy conditions made it a tough match for Caitlin Kennedy and Melissa Wundersitz in their quarter final this afternoon. Despite struggling with her serve, Caitlin won the first set 6-4 with some high quality tennis. The second set went game for game, with Caitlin hitting the ball deep and Melissa trying to use her strong forehand to force an error. At 5 all Melissa finally managed to get the break and closed out the set 7-5. Again the third set was high quality tennis with long rallies and very close games. It looked like heading for a tie breaker, before Caitlin made three strong first serves in a row to take the third set and the match 6-4, 5-7, 7-5.

 

4/4/11        Saturday saw the start of the Women’s Doubles with two matches played. Jade Sheary and Renee Sheary took on Merran and Laura Siddons and proved too strong winning 6-2, 6-0.

 

In the afternoon, in tricky conditions, Kerry and Melissa Wundersitz took on Kerry Clarke and Catherine Potter. It was an exciting match that could easily have gone either way. The Wundersitz’s started very well, taking the first set 6-1. But in a great comeback, Catherine started to find her range and Kerry Clarke used her athletic game to finish off points strongly. The Clarke/Potter combination won the second set 6-1 and looked like they had the match in their grasp. That looked even more likely when they shot to a 3-1 lead in the final set, but Kerry and Melissa used all their experience and consistency to reel off 5 straight games and win the final set 6-3.

 

29/3/11        Tuesday afternoon was a beautiful day for tennis, with every court busy and even players waiting for a court to become available. Jade Sheary and Catherine Potter were fighting it out on court 6 in their quarter final of the Women’s Club Championships. On court 5 was a gentlemen’s group, average age 82!

 

Catherine’s left handed game was troubling Jade, but Jade was able to play patiently and close out the first set 6-3. In the second set Jade got into her stride and closed out the match 6-2.

 

The Women’s singles Championship for the “Marie McLoghlin” trophy kicked off on Saturday, with 2 matches from the top half of the draw. The #1 seed Kerry Clarke ( Saturday ERT section 2 team ) played Kate Hoskins ( Thursday night social ) and as Kate had predicted before the start, Kerry was too strong, winning 6-1, 6-0. Kate served well and used all her tricks, but Kerry is an accomplished player and in a match with some very good rallies, was able to win and confirm her position as favourite for the championship.

 

Meanwhile on court 1 Renee Sheary  ( Saturday ERT section 2 team ) took on last years semi-finalist Hannah Castles ( Club social tennis organiser ). Renee played very well, showing how much she has improved in both consistency and strength, over the past year. She is very athletic on the court, running down some great shots by Hannah and frustrating her opponent. Renee hits the ball with lots of top spin, giving herself a good margin for error, while Hannah hits the ball much flatter and deep in the court. Renee’s consistency and determination held off Hannah in the second set winning 6-1, 6-3.

 

After the quarter finals matches Kerry and Renee took to the courts in their semis final.

 

The games were very close at the start but Kerry managed to convert her opportunities and earned her 4-1 lead. Renee looked out of sorts and unfortunately it turned out she had aggrivated a knee injury and was forced to retire. This means Kerry Clarke is through to the final.

 

There will be more matches during the week and we look forward to the start of the doubles matches next weekend.

 

The South Hawthorn Tennis Club will hold the Women’s singles Championship for the “Marie McLoghlin” trophy over several weekends in March-April 2011.

 

There will be a Women’s doubles event as well.

 

A draw will be made and matches scheduled to suit the opponents.

 

Matches can be played on Friday evenings and Saturday or Sunday afternoons, or evenings.

 

Thanks to Craig Chester and John Best for organising the event.

 

To enter please e-mail Craig at Craig.Chester@au.hjheinz.com

 

 

Men’s 2010 Singles and doubles Championships

 

15/11/10

 

It was an ideal day yesterday, for the Final of the South Hawthorn Tennis Club, Men’s Singles Championship. No wind to speak of and an overcast sky made for a great day for tennis.  The biggest distraction for the players was the sight of Brett Delidio playing on court 1. We trust he paid his visitors fee. For the first time, the final was played immediately before the AGM which meant that there were a good number of spectators to see a quality match.  Guests of honour were Neil Maher 10 time winner of the event ( after whom the trophy is named ) and Beryl Maher winner of the Women’s Singles in 1962.

 

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Kebbie Kirkcaldie-Bowell at the age of 15 took on Felix Best who is 14 and they must be the youngest members to take part in the final. The boys had been seeded #1 & #2, so it was no surprise to see them in the final. Both work as hard at their tennis as anyone in the club, playing every day of the week at coaching, squads, competition, school and pennant. Both boys started slowly, but Felix settled more quickly and got his cross court backhand working and was able to nullify Kebbie’s strong serve. Felix won the first set 6-3. In the second set the boys played some great tennis, with long rallies and some great winners. In the end Felix was too strong and took the second set 6-2.

 

After the match our President Graeme Longmuir, welcomed Neil and Beryl Maher back to South Hawthorn.  Both Neil and Beryl have made a great contribution to our club (see the Club History section) and It was their first time back for 40 years. Neil thanked the club for inviting them back and spoke of his friendship with Graeme’s father Bob Longmuir and Aunt Joyce Teele.

 

Neil presented the “Neil Maher Trophy” to Felix and congratulated he and Kebbie on a great match.

 

http://www.southhawthorntennisclub.com/_/rsrc/1290130113753/club-championships-1/Neil%20Maher%20Graeme%20Longmuir%20Beryl%20Maher%20retouched.jpg?height=226&width=400

 

Then Beryl Maher presented the trophy for the Men’s doubles to John and Felix Best.

 

Beryl remembered another connection with the club and the Longmuir family when she told Graeme that his Grand Father (after whom the Longmuir courts are named) had built her parents house in East Hawthorn. It was a lovely moment for the club to have two of it’s greatest contributors come back and remember their times at South Hawthorn and we were happy to be able to introduce a new generation of our members to some of the people who have helped shape our club. Hopefully as Felix and Kebbie visit the club over the next 70-80 years they can point out the Maher name on the honour boards and tell people that they were able to meet Neil and Beryl Maher.

 

All in all a very successful Men’s Club Championships and we thank all the players who took part and Craig Chester and John Best for organising the event.

 

 

 

7/11/10

 

It was a beautiful day today for the Final of the South Hawthorn Tennis Club, Men’s Doubles Championship.

 

The match was palyed on South Hawthorn “centre court” #3 and though there were few spectators, there were many twists and turns, worthy of a final and the result went right down to the wire.

 

Dylan Edgley and Michael Tendler started well and played solid tennis in the first set, against John and Felix Best, who may have been a bit shell shocked, as they tried to keep up.

 

Dylan and Michael closed out the first set 6/2 and it looked like the final might be over quickly……………… very quickly!

 

However, words were exchanged between Father and Son (always good to see a family domestic on court) and that seemed to spark a revival and John and Felix fought their way back into the match, taking the second set 6/4.

 

John and Felix started the third set well and before they knew it, they were 5/2 ahead, but Dylan and Michael broke John’s serve and then Michael held a solid service game to get back to 4/5, with Felix to serve.

 

Felix Best held his nerve to take the match, though John Best had lost track of the game score and set off for the other end thinking the match was still alive.

 

Final score, John Best and Felix Best defeated Dylan Edgley and Michael Tendler 2/6, 6/4, 6/4.

 

 

 

24/10/10

 

It was a beautiful day for the semi finals today and the biggest distraction for the players was the chirping of the birds. Felix Best and Alex Handrinos were first on court, for an exciting match that swayed between each player. Felix won the first set 6-4, but quickly went down 0-3 in the second set and Alex never let him back in, taking the set 6-2. In the third set it was tight from the start, Alex keeping Felix at the baseline, then passing him time after time when he came to the net. Alex had 2 match points at 5-4, but couldn’t close out the match. Felix came back and had 2 match points of his own at 6-5, but in the end the match was decided in a tie break, with Felix winning through to the final.

 

In the other semi, Kebbie Kirkcaldie-Bowell took on Rod Bernabe and in another extremely close match, Kebbie played some great tennis to win through to the final 6-4, 7-6. The final will be held on the 14th November at 2pm. That will allow people to watch the match and then attend the AGM if they wish. We hope to see lots of spectators at the club.

 

Meanwhile in the doubles semi final Dylan Edgley and Michael Tendler took on Craig Holton and Craig Chester.

 

Once again Dylan and Michael were very solid, winning 6-0, 6-1. They will play John and Felix Best in the final.

 

 

 

19/10/10

 

Kebbie Kirkcaldie Bowell dominated last night’s quarter final against Mark Tillman 6-0, 6-3 to complete the semi final draw for the singles championships.

 

There is no doubt the “Neil Maher Trophy” is up for grabs this year, with any one of the four semi finalists capable of winning.

 

Fifteen year old junior, Kebbie Kirkcaldie-Bowell will play the more experienced Rod Bernabe on one side of the draw, while fourteen year old Felix Best will take on Alex Handrinos.

 

The two juniors who are regular junior tournament singles players, will be tested by the experience of their marginally older opponents.

 

We are hopeful both semis will be completed this weekend and will keep you posted about the date for the final.

 

Meanwhile we await the result of the doubles semi final between Craig Chester and Craig Holton vs Dylan Edgley and Michael Tendler, to see who takes on the father and son combination of John and Felix Best in the final.

 

 

 

18/10/10

 

Anthony Green played Felix Best ( our current Don Mann Trophy winner ) yesterday in a quater final and Felix won through to play Alex Handrinos in the semi final.

 

Felix won the first set convincingly 6-1, but Anthony got off to a great start in the second set leading 3-0 before Felix got onto the score board.

 

Forcing Felix to make more shots and frustrating him with his court coverage, Anthony almost won the set, before Felix came back and won 7-5.

 

Felix then backed up in the doubles, partnered by his father John, in a great match with Pat Couttie and John Corcoran.

 

The Bests won the first set 6-2, but had a slow start in the second set and fell well behind, before clawing their way back to 5 all and then taking the

 

tie-breaker and the match.

 

 

 

15/10/10

 

Alex Handrinos stormed into the semi finals last night defeating Peter Smart 6-0, 6-1.

 

Alex was very solid, keeping the ball deep and working over Peter’s backhand. Peter just couldn’t get going at any stage and wasn’t able to produce his best tennis in the match. Alex will play the winner of the Anthony Green vs Felix Best match which will be played early tomorrow morning.

 

 

 

10/10/10

 

Sunday and another beautiful day, with the biggest distraction for the players, the buzzing of the bees.

 

Treasurer Craig Holton, who plays for the Tuesday night “Tigers” played fellow team member, Alex Handrinos. Craig played serve volley tennis, with a textbook one handed backhand, while Alex with a two handed backhand was more at home around the baseline. Alex was too strong for Craig, playing some great tennis and winning 6-2, 6-1.

 

On court 3, past singles champion Dylan Edgley and partner Michael Tendler played Rod Bernabe and Mark Tillman in a first round doubles match, with Dylan and Michael winning 6-3, 6-3. There was some quality, powerful tennis and it is hard to see anyone being able to beat Dylan and Michael.

 

Craig Chester took on 15 year old Kebbie Kirkcaldie Bowell this afternoon and in a close match it was never certain whether age or experience would triumph. In perfect conditions, Craig got off to a great start and despite having a 5-3 lead, lost the first set 7-5. Again in the second set Craig started well, but Kebbie never let up and forced the set into a tie breaker. Craig found a second wind to take the tie breaker and force a third set. Maybe Craig had given everything in the tie breaker, because Kebbie started the third set well and raced to a 3-0 lead. Craig fought hard, but Kebbie was too strong and won the third set 6-3.

 

Meanwhile injuries are taking their toll with Jack Kneale forced to withdraw and Anthony Green nursing a strained shoulder.

 

So in the top half of the draw, Rod Bernabe is through to the semi final and will play the winner of Kebbie Kirkcaldie Bowell vs Mark Tillman. In the bottom half of the draw, the quarter finals are Peter Smart vs Alex Handrinos and Anthony Green vs Felix Best. We hope to get more matches played during the week with the final in the next two weeks.

 

 

 

9/10/10

 

Saturday. You couldn’t ask for a better day for tennis, as the club championships continued. The sun was out and there wasn’t a breath of wind and the biggest distraction for the players was the sight of our beautiful wisteria in full bloom.

 

Mark Tillman from the Thursday night “Breakers” took on Darren Tendler. Both Mark and Darren are pushing 6’4″, so there was lots of poweful tennis, but Mark had too much experience and came through, 6-1, 6-1.

 

In the next match, Rod Bernabe, in a second round match, played Michael Tendler and continued his good form winning 6-0, 6-3.

 

In the final singles match for the day, Anthony Green also from the Thursday night “Breakers” played Pat Couttie, who plays Tuesday nights section 6 for the “Norm’s boys”. In a tight 3 set match, Anthony won through to the next round.

 

In the first doubles match in the championships, Pat Couttie and John Corcoran, took on Past President and fellow member of the Tuesday night “Norm’s Boys” Graeme Castles, partnered by David Maughan who apart from being a committee member, plays for the Monday night section 1 Very Very Sneakies and the section 4 Tuesday night “Tigers”. Pat and John were too strong winning 6-3, 6-4.

 

 

 

7/10/10

 

Rod Bernabe and Ross Rathborne played the first match of the Club Championships tonight, in the fight for the “Neil Maher Trophy”.

 

Rod is one of the favouites for 2010, while Ross has taken sets from previous winners, Dylan Edgley and Charlie Carty.

 

Ross, the Captain of the monday night Very Very Sneaky team and Rod a member of the Thursday night Breakers, played a match that the experts thought might go either way. However, Rod didn’t underestimate Ross’s sneakiness and took the match 6-1, 6-1 and made a BIG statement to other competitors that this could be his year.

 

We thank all the players who are taking part in this years event and look forward to some great matches to decide the winner  for 2010.

 

 

 

5/10/10

 

Last chance to enter the Men’s Singles and Doubles Championships for 2010.

 

It should prove an interesting event, without both of last years singles finalists out of the event.

 

2010 will see a new champion for both singles and doubles.

 

We encourage as many members as possible to get behind the event and to have some fun and get to know other members of the club.

 

Entries close this Wednesday.

 

 

 

28/9/10

 

The South Hawthorn Tennis Club will hold the Men’s singles Championship for the “Neil Maher” trophy over several weekends in October 2010.

 

There will be a Men’s doubles event as well.

 

A draw will be made and matches scheduled to suit the opponents.

 

Matches can be played on Friday evenings and Saturday or Sunday afternoons, or evenings.

 

Thanks to Craig Chester and John Best for organising the event.

 

To enter please e-mail Craig at Craig.Chester@au.hjheinz.com

 

 

 

 

 

Women’s 2010 Singles Championships

 

 

 

24/4/10

 

In difficult blustery conditions, Caitlin Kennedy and Kerry Wundersitz fought out a tough match today, to decide the Women’s Singles Champion for 2010.

 

Kerry a multiple winner of the title, proved too strong for Caitlin in her first final. Though Caitlin played well and made Kerry work hard for every point, she had no answer for Kerry’s powerful backhand and consistency.

 

We would like to thank all the women who took part, Lucy Lechich, Miranda Stuart, Melissa Wundersitz, Hannah Castles, Jade Sheary, Jordanna Solomon and Kerry and Caitlin.

 

It was only through their commitment, that for the first time since 2002, we were able to run the tournament.

 

We look forward to even more entries next year and another close contest.

 

 

 

22/4/10

 

The second semi final of the Women’s Open Championship was played tonight in beautiful conditions.

 

Hannah Castles took on Caitlin Kennedy in a very high standard match. Both past winners of the Bascomb Trophy it was always going to be a close contest and congratulations to Caitlin who came out on top.

 

In the first set, games went on serve until Caitlin broke in the eleventh game and then held a tight service game, to win 6/4. In the second set Caitlin’s footwork kept her going in very warm conditions and she was able to get to Hannah’s big forehand drives and keep her under pressure. Serving well, she closed out the second set 6/3.

 

The Final will take place this Saturday at 2.30 pm between Kerry Wundersitz and Caitlin Kennedy. We hope to get some spectators to what should be an exciting climax to a great event.

 

Thanks again to all the girls who took part, without them we couldn’t have run the event and had this exciting final.

 

 

 

19/4/10

 

Firstly, and most importantly, thank you to all the girls who gave up their time to support the club Championships.

 

Fine weather, a light southerly breeze, a great day for tennis. First up, Kerry Wundersitz, our multiple Club Champion and #1 seed v Lucy Lechich, one of our talented girls from Sunday Junior Comp ( and winner of the Bascomb trophy for this season ) in the first quarter final. In an impressive performance, Lucy showed she has a full range of solid shots, strong serve and some tennis smarts using a cheeky dropshot to great effect to force the match to 3 sets. However, in the end Kerry’s experience, depth of shot and that trademark slice backhand proved why she will be the one to beat. Well done to Lucy for a great performance.

 

The other Quarter Final saw Melissa Wundersitz taking on Miranda Stuart down on court four. Miranda has a great defensive game, and troubled Melissa with her consistency, but Melissa’s big forehand got her through in two tight sets, the second in a tie break.

 

Next, Caitlin Kennedy v Jordanna Solomon in the 3rd Qtr Final. Caitlin justified her #3 seeding and won through in 2 sets to set up a potential semi final against the #2 seed Jade Sheary… But Hannah Castles had other plans

 

Hannah played brilliantly. Jade has a powerful game with a big serve and solid ground strokes, but was outpointed by Hannah, who showed more patience and the ability to move her opponent around to force errors. Another great match of impressive quality.

 

We moved quickly to the semi finals, and Kerry accounted for Melissa to move to another SHTC final, awaiting the winner of Hannah and Caitlin this week. 2 matches we are very much looking forward to.

 

Next Games:

 

Second Semi Final – Caitlin Kennedy v Hannah Castles, Thursday 5pm.

 

SHTC Womens Singles Final – Kerry Wundersitz v winner of Second Semi: Saturday 2:30pm

 

Please come down and support your club championships this Saturday, sit on the deck and enjoy a great afternoon.

 

Hope to see many of you there.

 

Craig Chester.

 

 

 

14/4/10

 

It’s on this weekend, the Women’s singles championship for 2010.

 

It is now too late to enter on line, so please call Craig Chester on 0488 331 536 by Friday to enter.

 

Thanks to all those taking part and making history for our club and good luck in your matches.

 

Thank you to our Juniors for continuing to support competition at our club and to the adults for their commitment to our club and Women’s tennis.

 

Thanks also to Craig Chester, John Best and Kathy Cameron for their commitment and determination to get this event to happen for the first time in many years.

 

 

 

Men’s 2009 Singles Championships

 

Congratulations to Dylan Edgley who has overcome Charlie Carty to be, back,to back, to back Club Champion. Yes that’s a threepeat for Dylan over Charlie. We think Charlie’s practice of playing golf on the morning of the Final each year might need review!

 

Thanks are due to Craig Chester for organising the event last May 2009.

 

This year saw juniors included for the first time with great success. Jason Tendler made the Semi Finals and others juniors troubled our more mature players. We look forward to the juniors going even further in next years event.