SIXTEEN Esperance Juniors competed in the CBH Country Zone Challenge during the first week of the school holidays. The joy of playing tennis in teams was a highlight over the three day event, held at the State Tennis Centre, Burswood.
Two 14 and under teams and two 12 and under teams were entered, each consisting of two boys and two girls. Boys and girls singles and doubles and mixed doubles made up the eight sets for each match-up.
The 14A team of Nikolah Vermeersch, Georgia Thomas, Bill and Sam Fetherstonhaugh, were victorious in two of their four match-ups- against both Lower and Upper Great Southern. A highlight for this team was playing exceptionally well when given the chance to compete on the clay courts at the centre. Well done to Georgia for winning all her singles matches.
The most successful team was 14B. Making it to the grand final, Ryan Donaldson, Jade O Callaghan, Ryan Vermeersch and Evie Hooper were defeated only by the South West team. Great victories were achieved over Midwest, Lower Great Southern and Peel. It was a terrific achievement to receive runner-up trophies considering the strength of the other centres. Well done guys.
The 12A team of Bradley Scheer, Trent Bouckaert, Sophie Fetherstonhaugh and Chelsea Pink all gained valuable experience as they battled hard over the three days. After losses in the first three rounds, they managed to finish on a high note with a conclusive win over Moore Districts. All four got up to win their singles in this instance.
The 12Bs were a keen group of three boys and three girls who gave their all for their team. A close defeat at the hands of Peel was followed up by losses to Southwest, Midwest and then a fantastic last day victory against Moore Districts. Well done to this group- Alicia Jackson, Zoe Gibson, Stephie Gibson, Zachary Gibson, Marcus Bouckaert and Liam O Callaghan.
Thanks to Drewe Vincent (South Coast Zone President) for his guidance and to all parents and children for making the trip to represent our zone.