Tennis Seniors New South Wales P.O. Box 4803, North Rocks, NSW, 2151 Phone: 61 400 389 234 Website: www.tennisseniors.org.au/nsw Email: [email protected] Print Post Approved PP229550 / 00003 President: Mick Bruton Secretary: Robyn Castle Treasurer: Arthur Olsen Editor: Robyn Castle - Email: [email protected] ABN 50 206 056 964 Newsletter of Tennis Seniors New South Wales. SUMMER issue
Program Of Events 2021
Dates Event / Venue Contact Phone
Mar 20-21 Tennis Macarthur R/Robin NRT 6 Michael Jackson 0413 632 632 Mar 26-28 Goulburn Tennis Club Dave Ridley 0418 162 252 Apr 23 - 25 Pennant Hills Social R/Robin Craig Edwards 0412 185 130 ear Members, May 1 - 2 Wagga Wagga R/R, Jim Elphic TC NRT 7 Tom Denahy 0422 632 026 I would like to thank May 14-16 Picton R/Robin NRT 5 Kat O Callaghan 0414 973 751 May 14-16 West Port Macquarie R/R Carol Daniel 0413 481 942 Clubs such as Kiama, May 29-30 West Tamworth R/R Brian Brooking 0417 614 054 Gosford, Hawks Nest, June 12– 14 Mixed Teams’ Event Kat O’Callaghan 0414 973 751 D June 19-20 Lake Macquarie Round Robin NRT 7 Keith Williams 0412 157 757 Nelson Bay, Tamworth, Wyong and June 25 - 28 Tweed Coast Seniors’ ITF S400 Natasha Kersten 0405 327 004 Pennant Hills who in the latter part June 26-27 Cowra R/Robin Sue Metcalf 0428 348 376 of 2020 ran their tournaments very July 9-11 Central Coast R/Robin Kat O’Callaghan 0414 973 751 successfully, despite having to have a July 16-18 East Port Macquarie Mark Giumelli 0427 669 189 July 30 - Aug 2 Forster Seniors R/R NRT 5 Brian Adams 0404 955 599 COVID plan in place and ensuring all Aug 13-15 Muswellbrook Park Seniors Val Angel 0408 436 443 players and spectators abided by the Aug 20-22 Batemans Bay R/Robin Anne Sawtell 0458 246 851 regulations. Sep 3-5 Cessnock Seniors R/Robin Sonia Close 0408 421 909 Sep 11-12 Manning River, Taree Shane Bridger 0429 818 120 After many years of drought the Sep 18-19 Northern Suburbs , Naremburn Kat O’Callaghan 0414 973 751 weather has changed and all the Sep 18-19 Orange Ex-Services R/Robin Col Parsons 6361 8279 Sep 25-26 Gunnedah Seniors Barry Wilson 6744 1251 country areas are looking fantastic, Sep 24-26 Pennant Hills Social R/Robin Craig Edwards 0412 185 130 so it is a great time to play in some Oct 1 - 4 State Championships ITF S700 Arthur Olsen 0400 525 591 of the country tournaments coming Oct 8 - 10 Kiama Vets & Legends Dave Lehman 0475 857 740 Oct 15 - 17 Gosford Round Robin Chris Lees 0411 154 327 up and also it will help out with their Oct 15-21 Merimbula Annual Seniors NRT 5 John Rheinberger 0438 928 516 economy. Oct 22 - 24 Dubbo Paramount Seniors Glenn Armstrong 0428 536 336 Our luck changed when COVID hit Oct 30 –31 Wyong Teams’ Event Leoni Baldwin 0448 723 138 Nov 5 - 7 Myall Park - Hawks Nest Lisa Dale 0412 500 055 and forced the cancellation of many Nov 13-14 Bathurst Carillon City R/Robin NRT 7 Andrew Mitton 0419 499 467 events on our calendar. At this Nov 28 Springwood Challenge Robyn Castle 0400 389 234 stage it is Walcha that has Dec 3 - 5 “ Dave Matthews” Nelson Bay NRT 5 Steve Taylor 0466 154 580 cancelled, and Narooma - March 5-7 Most ITF Events here and overseas PLEASE NOTE - THESE TOURNAMENTS ARE ALL TBC in have been cancelled which has view of possible changes to COVID restrictions. affected our Representative players as well. COVID has had an impact with our finances this year, but by prudent spending we have managed them. Their conscientiousness and Renewals are still being to keep things under control. hardworking spirit have been greatly As you may know, we are conducting appreciated. We always strive to do received—it’s not too our Committee meetings by Zoom what is best for our members and we now, and it has meant we have the are committed to improvement, so late!! facility for country members to tune your suggestions are always in to our meetings if they so desire. gratefully received. I hope to see Please pay $20 by Cheque or It is very pleasing to see some young many of you on the Court in 2021. Direct Deposit faces on our Committee who are keen BSB 032-044 ACC # 315 326 to progress TSNSW into the future. Yours in tennis, Our Committee has worked very Please reference using your diligently over the past year, and it MICK BRUTON has been a pleasure working with PRESIDENT Surname or Date of Birth ITF Information - Changes to Age categories
he ITF has created a new age category to allow players aged 30-and-over to play in competitive, non- professional events, and there is an event for Over 90s as well, enabling the accrual of points – in World Championship events. In 2021, tournaments on the ITF Seniors’ Tour will be able to host players in these T categories for the first time. This, of course is dependent on the Coronavirus restrictions being lifted, to allow International players to participate. Ranking points are important for players in World Senior Championship – (to get a good seeding) – however Tournaments must be “Open“ to International visitors – not possible at present with Lock-downs suddenly being announced and players having to “Quarantine” for up to 14 days. DO NOT BOOK any Accommodation at this time!
Players will be reminded to update their IPIN by the ITF. No charges are made for an IPIN, except when entering a tournament. Each event will incur a fee of AU$8 collected by those running the tournament. Announcing the World Teams and Individuals: Umag, Croatia - June 6-19 Seniors (50/55/60) Umag, Croatia - September 12-25 Young Seniors (30/35/40/45) Maiorca, Spain - October 10-23 Super Seniors (65/70/75/80/85/90)
For more information contact the ITF Seniors Department by email: [email protected]
TSA Annual Individual Championships - Re-scheduled
ennis Seniors Australia cancelled the Annual Teams’ Carnival and re-scheduled the Individual Championships from January 2021, to Easter at Lyneham in place of the ACT State Champs. However, Tennis Seniors ACT has withdrawn its offer to run the Championships at Lyneham, due to COVID-19 restrictions and financial concerns due to lack of sponsorship. TThe TSA Executive is pleased to announce that hosting of the Individual Championships has been awarded to Tennis Seniors Queensland, and are scheduled from 19-24 September at the Gold Coast. Read about it on the News page : https://www.tennisseniors.org.au/ It’s an Honour!
The ITF has awarded several awards for excellent service in 2019 based on Player surveys and Referee Reports. A Letter of Commendation and a Certificate were received by Arthur Olsen and Steve Longworth for exceptional performance as Tournament Directors. Arthur, at the 2019 Tennis Seniors NSW State Championships at Pennant Hills, and Steve, in June 2019, at the ITF Tournament in Tweed Heads. Who’s WHO? Cheerios
e have another Life Member as of December 13, 2020. At our meeting at Cintra Park, Mick Bruton -
our illustrious President was bestowed with the Award, after a short spiel by Vice President Mr W Graeme Sticka. Mick was congratulated by TSA Secretary Alan
Walsh, and a video was played which passed on messages from several of our rank-and-file members including - Glenn & Karen Armstrong, Julie Pratt and even the TNSW CEO Lawrence
Robertson!
Turning 80 has never been such fun! TSA’s Alan Walsh Just ask John Stimson and his congratulates Mick brother! (Thx to Irene for this pic!) Hey John - Irene's birthday is coming up soon.....
Elaine Bruton is recovering slowly from a bad fall she had at home in the garden. Mick didn’t know she had fallen and she had trouble making herself heard to be rescued. Both arms had broken bones, and it L to R will be twelve weeks before they Five Life Members - have mended. Wishing you a full Ross Jones, Mick recovery Elaine. Bruton, Robyn Castle, Arthur Olsen Noel Fraser is also at home (in the and Max Ward care of his #1 lady, Val Angel.) She says he is a good patient.... Best wishes to you both! TRIVIA QUIZ John O’Brien, (who survived the 1. Who was know as the “ Blonde Bombshell” of Australian Lindt Cafe Seige), has been in and tennis? What was his amazing feat? out of hospital, over many months. John, we trust that you will benefit 2. What was special about Wimbledon 1968? Who were the from the care you receive and will be contestants in the Final? feeling much better soon.
3. What event was recently played in London? Who won? Carol Campling had a successful 4. In the Men’s US Open this year (with COVID-19 restrictions) knee replacement and is who played the Final? concentrating on Physio and Rehab to get back on the court! Keep up 5. What record was created in him winning it? the good work Carol, Mick’s still waiting for the Mixed event you Answers on Page 6 promised him last year!
Rest in Peace Placing bets all the time, polishing rocks till they shone, as the tattoo on his arm slowly fades. Tommy Wayte - much loved husband of Margaret Wayte His hair he can no longer braid, and from Forster, passed away suddenly on Sunday October 4 with a smile that could brighten the world, 2020. A funeral Service was held on Thursday 15th, Happiness that could never grow attended by 100 friends and family who had booked. Others old. joined the interment at the cemetery opposite the Services If you knew him, you know that his Club - and shared time afterwards to remember him and to heart is 24 carat gold. Love you so much Tom, console his family. Genevieve, 24/1/2021 Summer 2020-2021 3 Don Ginns - Generous benefactor rest in peace
Julie Pratt writes: Originally, I knew our Don through my tennis association with Don's wonderful wife, Patty. The friendship grew once I became a Senior player and every year many of us travelled to Merimbula. The excitement commenced from Day One when we met at Batemans Bay for lunch on the Sunday and then on to Merimbula to unpack and head to the Tennis Club for "meet and greet" . Don always had so many jokes to tell and his smile, laugh and sparkling eyes were a joy to behold. We always had such an unbelievable week and we could hardly wait another 52 weeks before we were together again. In those days, I ran a 200 Club for Charity (through Tennis Seniors NSW). Tickets were $10 each & we raised $2000.00...... $1000.00 went on prizes and $1000.00 to Charity... Don always purchased 50 tickets for his staff at Ginns Electrical.. a huge donation in those days ... Don was an amazing Electrical Engineer and just one of his many important contracts was to complete all the electrical work for the pumps at BP petrol stations..... (my thanks to Bob Riddle for that information).. Don was the driving force behind his very successful electrical business and his son Greg has ensured it has continued. Our Don would be extremely proud. You were a true friend and colleague to many and will be in our thoughts forever. Rest in Peace our dearest Don. Love Jules.
Don Ginns was truly one of life’s gentlemen, a character in his own right and a great friend. Don joined me on a trip to Wimbledon and Scandinavia in 2003 with Peter and Pam Kilborn, Phil and Yvonne Bryant, along with Robyn Avery, Denise Plummer and Sue Skippen. We were a small group but all got on so well with lots of laughs especially when we checked in at our various Hotels. Our tour guide Xavier had an accent very difficult to understand and when giving out room keys, he always called Don “Missa Ginns,” this was the joke every time I spoke to him over the years. Don was always sketching wherever we went - his HB pencils at the ready and each Christmas I would receive a personal card always to his “Fearless Leader” - a title I loved. I did get to visit him when he moved to the Nursing Home at Sylvania, He invited Denise Plummer, Bruce Burns and myself to a very enjoyable lunch in one of their Dining Rooms. He shared an exhibition of his Paintings and Cards of which he was very proud. Don was a special man and very talented, a friendship I have cherished. Loretta Funnell.
Don also had a visit from Peggy and Robyn one day, he treated them to a lovely meal, and a glass of wine!
(Right) Don with Peg Hoysted and Robyn Castle in one of the Dining Rooms
Summer 2020-2021 4 Newk plays a stroke he didn’t know he had!
ohn Newcombe’s mastery of the tennis court coupled with his old-style Australian larrikinism has made him an enduring national icon. In 2003 a sprightly man with a rollicking walk, an infectious grin, wearing a cut – back version of J what was once the most famous moustache in sport, John Newcombe played Wimbledon again, back where he was king, and where he is still one of the most recognizable men in tennis. He has only spoken sparingly of that stroke which he says was like “ a bolt of lightning in my head” – which has left him with the slightest hint of a slowdown in his speech, a pause here and there, reminding him that at 58, he was mortal. Newk won Wimbledon in 1967, 70 and 71 and lost 1969 to Rod Laver, who has also suffered a stroke. “He was 62, I was 58 with high Cholesterol and blood pressure that was a bit up and down. Also, I had a few bad habits like social John pictured with smoking and drinking, you know. What you need to do is go to moderate (or nil) wife Angie drinking and just forget the cigarettes! I intend to hang around a lot longer, and I’m lucky it was mild. They told me that the lip and the tongue would be the last things to get better, and when I am a little bit tired the numbness comes back – I’m told not to worry about that so I just slow down. I tend not to worry about these things. I’ll have to carry Davo (Owen Davidson) in the Senior Men’s Doubles, so we have a 45-minute hit every day. Now we’ll have some fun out there! I’m not one to get too stressed out, you find out the facts and you face it. If something did happen to me, I couldn’t complain about the life I’ve had. I’m pretty bloody lucky, life’s been very good to me. True, you suddenly realise your mortality and that you are vulnerable. It’s a bit disappointing to find out you ‘re not invincible.” “You do hear of people who have strokes and go back to bad habits. I don’t intend to do that.”
Brenda Foster and Mary Gordon inducted in the Tennis Seniors Australian Hall of Fame
Congratulations to Brenda Foster and Mary Gordon on being inducted into the TSA Hall of Fame. Brenda Foster has to date won 4 ITF World Doubles Championships, 4 ITF World Mixed Championships, 9 Australian Singles Championships, 8 Australian Doubles Championships and 9 Australian Mixed Doubles Championships
Mary Gordon has to date won 2 ITF World Doubles Championships, 12 Australian Singles Championships, 17 Australian Doubles Championships and 6 Australian Mixed Championships.
Due to COVID cancellations, the Hall of Fame Awardees will not be able to be inducted and presented at the Australian Teams Carnival in January. TSA will recognise these players on their wonderful achievements at the first available opportunity in 2021.
5 Summer 2020-2021 Jimmy Leggatt - a Life well lived!
Steven, Sarah, Charli, Liam, Alicia, the singles championships 4 times and Rachel, Harry, and Joshua. He the doubles 9 times with different always said to us, we have gone partners. A moment that summed Dad down the pecking order now he had up was when he played the Grand Final grandkids. They were his pride and at White City partnered by Craig Hill. joy and each of them have followed When they won the last point to win the his footsteps with the love of sport. match Dad gave out a huge shout. Although only one has followed him Craig asked why he was so excited; in the tennis world he was super Dad’s response was, “the last badge proud with all their achievements. comp I won was before you were He was proud of what they were born”. achieving and always told them so. The team then moved to Cheltenham Dad liked to talk, talk about where once again he was a club anything and everything, he would champion in doubles. As players started sit there and chew your ear off if you to retire, he made new long-term James (Jim) Leggatt was born on let him. He was a knowledgeable friends like Tim Niccol and Brian January 15, 1939 in Marrickville. He man; you could learn things from Armstrong. Finally, he turned full grew up in Dulwich Hill where he him, and he was rarely ever wrong. circle and returned to Western Suburbs attended Dulwich Hill Primary School He was the Master of Public where he continued to play until 2018 and then on to Canterbury Boys High. transport and it would not bother giving him 62 years of consecutive On turning 15, he left school and started him that he had to catch 2 buses, a badge tennis starting and ending at his working life with the NSW train and then walk to the tennis Western Suburbs Club. Dad holds the Government in Industrial Relations courts. If he got to play, he was record of most consecutive years before transferring to the Department of happy. And he could have an extra playing badge, a record that is unlikely Education until his retirement in 1999. beer that way. to be broken. After his working career he pursued a I was waiting for my chat on what Dad was a club Champion at Western lifetime dream of going to university. Tony Trabert had achieved. Now Suburbs in 1958 to 1963, the club He completed a Bachelor of Arts – in that information source is gone. I doubles champion with Ian King in History and Politics at Macquarie guess I will have to check Wikipedia 1959, 61 & 62. University. His only regret was missing from now on. He was a competitive player with a the trials for the University team. Tennis was his major passion, never-say-die attitude and he was damn Dad was always there for mum. Dad especially Badge. He followed in the good. He was still a top ‘A’ grade met mum playing table tennis at steps of his father who was also a player at 69 and only a stroke saw him Summer Hill. Mum beat Dad that day, very good and passionate player. drop down the grades. His advice to Ian (we will not mention that Dad had given Dad started playing tennis at the age and me on playing tennis was simple. mum a 45-point start.) Dad showed he of 16 at Western Suburbs, Hit the ball cross court, no double was a true gentleman. Dad never liked representing the district in the faults and learn to smash well. He to lose, so mum must have been Tremlett Cup and then the Blackwell loved beating players who thought he something special. They were married Cup. Eventually he ended playing at was no good. at Mittagong and for 53 years they have The Hills in Blackwell cup before He was lucky enough to have his two shared everything life can offer. playing in the over 40’s where he sons follow in his footsteps playing They built their family home in Winston played with what became the “dream badge and reaching Premier League. Hills and together they had 3 children team” which included John Davis, We appreciate John Davis and his Brian, Ian, and Kylie. We as a family John Wakefield, Bruce Burns, Bob transportation which enabled Dad to shared the love of the outdoors and Riddle, John Whittaker and Mick continue to play. They shared over 40 sport. Our weekends were always spent Parslow, winning many titles over years of laughs and I am sure John’s playing or watching sport. the years. head was spinning listening to Dad’s Our family expanded when we all got Badge tennis was a true love. He stories and statistics over many trips. married, He opened his family home, started at an early age and played We are humbled by Mum’s strength his arms and his heart to Rebecca, Sam basically his whole life. He first over the past week. Her ability to focus and David. He gave us his blessings to played Metropolitan Badge at the on the amazing life she shared with dad start a new chapter in our lives with our age of 18 at Western Suburbs Lawn and not dwell on what she has lost. I partners. When we all left home, he tennis club where his own dad was a hope that through this we can find would still support us in everything we member. They both then moved to strength from her example and be there did. He was our number one supporter. the Marrickville Lawn, where he had for her whenever she needs us. He allowed us to follow our dreams and great success and more importantly To say we loved our Dad would be an be humble. gaining life-long friendships. He understatement and to say we are going The biggest smile you would see on his played with great friends like Terry to miss him would be an even greater face was when he was talking about his Stafford, Kerry White, John Hessian, understatement. grandchildren. Craig Hill and Ray Bray. He won By his 3 kids and several others...... Summer 2020-2021 6 Ulladulla Summer Games
hat amazing weather for the Ulladulla Seniors W Tournament on 19, 20 & 21 February with 230 players participating over the 3 days. Friday was extremely wet for players travelling to Ulladulla with a few players very doubtful play would even get under way. But of course, the weather ‘gods’ were smiling. It was overcast but dry and certainly humid as the day progressed. All 12 courts were full for the Singles event with 44 men and 14 women taking to the courts. Our youngest player, Scott Leith narrowly beat David Rouse in the MS 35-55 section. While another sponsor of our tournament along As usual our many volunteers kept new player to our tournament, Glen with the Mollymook Golf Club and everyone well fed and hydrated in Newbery also narrowly beat Simon Tennis NSW South East Region, our ‘Covid safe world’. A few Harris in the MS 40-55. It was lovely whose donation of $250 became simple changes for preparing, to see Sharyn Eaton playing singles prizes in the raffle. First prize, a ordering and the provision of this year with her winning the WS week’s accommodation at Big 4 beverages made it just so. 35-60 section over Sharon Killen. Burrill Lake was won by John Saturday evening, sitting on the Both ladies and men’s doubles McCullah. Second prize went to lawn under the stars, eating a events were full, as was the John and Irene Stimson, a week’s lamb or beef bread roll, cooked on Combined Age Mixed doubles on the spit, followed by home-made the Saturday afternoon with some apple crumble and custard, exceptional tennis played. It was listening to fantastic live music, great to see so many new players to with a glass of wine, was truly our tournament and of course many magical. familiar faces. A special mention A huge thank you to all the players should go to our oldest pairing of who supported our tournament Colin Elliott & Ron Lewis, a and for making it so enjoyable and combined age of 167. The a wonderful place to be for the Combined three days. Age Mixed Mary Lou Barclay
Doubles Clive Wilkinson receiving his event is prize from Mary Lou always a lot of fun. How accommodation at the Mollymook pleasing it holiday house donated by Kay was to see a Philip. A very generous donation number of Kaye and very much appreciated. pairings Col Elliott and Another of our major prizes is a Rosina Anson that had gift voucher from Tennis Jewels, been put and how wonderful that Kay Philip together, now very happy to play won this prize. together in other tournaments. Thank you to all our players and Jenny Gerardis and Anne Wallis This year, Big 4 Bungalow Park on visitors who supported the raffle A matching pair! Winners! Burrill Lake were once again a major and donations for prizes. Celebrating 50 years since WIMBLEDON Emu Swamp - 2020
By Helen Worland...... surprise get-together. In 1970 as a 19 year-old, I 50 years since Wimbledon, left Australia to fulfil my very special memories, and a dreams of competing birthday cake as well. To add overseas against the best to the occasion he organised tennis players in the the local TV station to world. I had a wonderful interview us, so we were all doubles partner in Helen TV stars for five minutes. Kayser (Holcomb). Together Tennis has given me so much - with Adrienne Avis and wonderful friends, exciting Frances Luff (Sargeant) we travels and many valuable left our shores to compete L to R Helen Holcomb, Helen Worland, experiences. I am lucky to Adrienne Avis, Frances Luff. in South Africa, England and have stayed injury-free and I Europe, playing women really enjoy competing. (I such as Margaret Smith and don’t think that “will to win” Billie Jean King etc. ever leaves us). We have all remained great mates could not celebrate due to total Thank you to all the volunteers and had often mentioned getting lockdown at the time . who make seniors’ tennis together to celebrate 50 years Unbeknown to me, as soon as possible, your efforts are so much since competing overseas and restrictions were slightly lifted, appreciated and I wish to thank particularly at Wimbledon. my husband Ian, gathered the you all for your friendship. During last year I turned 70 and girls together and organised a Helen Memorials - Julie Pascoe and Mike Hook
Julie Pascoe’s took place on Saturday February 13, at North Sydney - where she and Wayne were married, “It was Julie’s decision” said Wayne. There is also a chair “In Memoriam” at Beauty Point, close to where Julie and Wayne lived, for people to sit and reflect if they please. A message to “Team Pascoe”:- what a wonderful celebration of an extraordinary life. You captured dear Julie’s essence so beautifully, her wit, her wisdom , her kindness, her generosity and her community spirit. You three are testament to her unfailing values, and are a tribute to her love, her passion and her integrity. This will continue her wonderful legacy and keep her in our hearts.
Mike Hook’s was held at Barker College in Waitara, Sunday Feb 14 - where he (and his children) went to school. What an uplifting event this was. So much praise for this wonderful man - Husband, Father and Grandfather. Every speaker had so many positive acclamations to make and so many humorous one-liners. Mike would have loved to be there himself. On a personal note, I am greatly saddened by his passing. He was a friend with whom I often communicated about our Cancer treatments. Mike finally succumbed on January 17, to melanoma after many operations and radiation treatment at the Sanitarium Hospital Wahroonga. His wife Jenny and three sons will miss Mike terribly. (No doubt Jonty the dog will too). His friends at the Kincumber Crocodiles on Mondays, will no doubt share stories in memory of this wonderful man. (Renamed “Mike’s Crocodiles”).
Summer 2020-2021 NSW Hardcourt - Life Membership 50 years of Interdistrict!
he NSW Hardcourt Tennis Association has awarded Life Membership to Rodger Waugh in recognition of his participation in the Hardcourt Interdistrict Competition for 50 years. Rodger, who is father of the cricket-playing twins, Steve and Mark, first played in 1958, representing T Sydenham - Bankstown in the President’s Cup. He also played in this Cup in 1959, 1960 and 1961 and then went on to play in the Tremlett Cup in 1962 to 1964. From 1964 to 1980 he represented in the Men’s Open division in the Blackwell Cup and then started playing ‘seniors’ in the George Rider & Twyford-Jones Cups representing Canterbury- Bankstown or Eastern Suburbs from 1980 to the present. In addition to playing Interdistrict, Rodger played in a number of the Metropolitan Hardcourt Championships events over the years between 1958 and 1980 and records show that he won the 14 and under singles title in 1958 and 16 and under title in 1961. Rodger also participated in the Closed State Championships conducted by “Hardcourt” in the years between 1987 and 1996 and won the Veteran Doubles event on two occasions - with R. Fuller in 1987 and with G. Perkins in 1993. Rodger Waugh has been, and still is, a credit to our great game. His demeanour and sportsmanship is an example to aspiring future tennis players. 2021 Tennis Seniors Queensland Mixed Teams’ Event
he Gold Coast has just hosted the 2021 Mixed Teams’ event – from January 13 – 16, expertly conducted by Gail Bates. 33 teams were in the Dennis Bindon congratulates Rodger Draw, with Ages from 30/35/40, 45/50, 55/60, Waugh on his Life Membership. T65/70 and 75/80 (three teams). Gold Coast Seniors’ Club and Miami Tennis Club were the two venues. Many teams were dressed in matching outfits, which were most impressive and very colourful. Several New South Wales teams were entered and they had a ball. Tuesday 13th was dedicated to “Meet and Greet” – and Final matches were over by 3pm Saturday 16th. Each match was 1 hr 45 minutes, with 5 sessions in a day. 1 Men’s Doubles, 1 Women’s Doubles and 2 Mixed Doubles – playing to 8 games with a 7-all Tie Breaker. Facebook and Instagram were popular for teams to share their enjoyment and to share team photos, while Vicki Perlic did her usual excellent job of posting lots of photos on the Tennis Seniors Queensland Facebook site. Vicki’s team also won a medal, so she concentrated while on court! The weather was kind ALL WEEK, much to Gail’s relief. Some players want this same event to be run EVERY year! Maybe Gail Bates will have a negative response to that idea! It is a mountain of work! But you never know...... RC
I told my suitcases we’re not going on vacation overseas this year.
Now I’m dealing with emotional baggage.
Central Coast Report
Cathy Benson noted: Very solid Captain’ s performance by Brett Haines. It wasn’t B event but winner of A event. One of the strongest groups of mixed events I have seen. No longer Runner-up king??? Robyn’s Moat Bounced back brilliantly today after looking a bit the worse for wear last night. (not alcohol related this time) Shaz, Sonia and Facebook pics have shown that Cathy Dave, well played. and Dave Benson will soon become Can’t wait for the blue ribbon event in Nelson Bay where Grandma and Grandpa - or will it be Nan and Pop? Daughter and Son-in- B Haines will team up with M Bruton. Just Gold... law have renovated the house, and Thanks Leoni and team for a great weekend of tennis will move in and welcome bubba in the next couple of months! Good on you Brett Haines wrote: Emma and Nathan Davies.... New Members of the committee should have older members Pat McAdam, has become a grandmother for the 12th time – to proof read their comments before listing as this point has Beau, born on Jan 30 to her daughter obviously been overridden by this afternoon’ s news !!! Heather and partner Stuart Burton. Pat I'd like to just add the missing bit that Mr Runner Up was beaten also has three great grandchildren! Our sincere congratulations Pat! in the Men's final by the newest committee member yesterday Pat will not be returning to tennis any keeping his streak going. (Now who was that?) time soon - why? She is still recovering from a spectacular fall from a ladder, which caused her ankle to be Just back from the teams’ event at Wyong and am pleased to smashed by one of the aluminium report that Mr Runner-up (aka Brett Haines) led his team to rungs. Sorry to say that Pat has been victory in the B group teams’ event today. So Mick's assertion out of action for eight months. that he never wins anything is no longer valid. Kim Blackburne made the decision to The committee was well represented by Cathy, Tracey, Eddie, have both her knees replaced on Feb Monique and I and on our behalf, I did thank 24th. This was done at the Mater Hospital, and Kim is progressing well. Leoni and her great team of volunteers for She was transferred to Rehab at another excellent weekend of tennis. This was Hunter’s Hill and she couldn’t wait to despite the numerous band of storms which get home. Missing her Foxtel apparently. delayed play. As I speak, I notice a number of They talked her into staying until pre seniors in attendance but the vast majority Thursday March 11, and she stayed till were our dedicated members. Friday 12. When she asked could she (Left) - Craig (Eddie) stay longer they refused. They needed and Katrina G Sticka the bed! Oh dear, “such is life”.
Karen Bindon has done the “almost impossible feat” - of getting out of QUIZ Answers: hospital a mere three days after 1. Lew Hoad. He won at Wimbledon as both Amateur and Pro- having a hip replacement! She is fessional. taking it easy at home - with help from her wonderful husband Dennis, using 2. The first Wimbledon where Professionals were allowed to simply a pair of elbow crutches to get play. The first “Open” one. Rod Laver beat Ken Rosewall. around. Her Specialist Doctor has predicted 3. The 2020 ATP Final - Winner Daniil Medvedev. she will be back playing tennis in no time. 4. Alexander Zverev and Dominic Thiem. Karen is agreeable with that idea, and she’s concentrating on getting her 5. After losing the first two sets – Dominic came through and balance as she swans around the won it – never before achieved. house while Dennis is out working. Good on you Karen!
Summer 2020-2021 10 Letter to the Editor..... erman Tennis Champion Sylvia Bauwens met “A blast from the Past”- from Barry Ling (Bowral). with a shocking I’m still vertical and playing tennis. I play most Tuesdays and Fridays accident recently and with a special group of seniors. I am lucky with my health and my legs G was killed while crossing a Railway still work surprisingly well! It’s especially important when I have to Crossing with her bicycle. move TO the ball. Since I am turning 92 in December – I am eligible for Sylvia was a former world No. 1 in the new 90+ age bracket. If only there was a tournament I could enter, both singles and doubles across with opponents my own age! Not to worry. different age categories. In singles, I also enjoy a walk with my Golden Retriever, Daisy, who is always she reached the No. 1 ranking in the smiling! One other thing that makes me happy is that I performed some 55-and-over category in December plastic surgery on my wife Helen’s Credit Card! (I cut it up!) Coronavirus has robbed us of social aspects of our favourite game, and 2003 and in the 70-and-over category who knows how long it will continue? in April 2016. She also I really love playing tennis with the group in Bowral. There are about 20 became the world No. of us. Funny – the group found out that my father started school at 1 in doubles in the 65- Bowral Primary in 1913, and was in the same class with Donald and-over category in Bradman! April 2012. When Ashley Cooper won the Men’s Singles at Wimbledon in 1958, I She represented was a Linesman for Jean Borotra (age 61) – who was playing in a special Germany in numerous ITF World event for older players! I think they call it the “Legends”. Team Championship events, after A Trivia question for you: first appearing at the competition in Name the player at Wimbledon in the 20th century (in 1939 to be 1995. In total, Sylvia played 497 exact), who won the Singles, Doubles and Mixed and was NEVER beaten singles matches on the seniors there. (Initials, BR). circuit, and won 77% of them. She That’s all for now, thanks for reading! BL won 39 singles titles – including victories at the European fter suffering a “split aorta” on the tennis court, having played Championships on two occasions, his Tuesday morning game with friends, Denzil Jephtha (Aged when she won back-to-back titles in 82) spent 10 weeks in Intensive care at the 60-and-over category in 2009-10. Westmead Hospital. Quick thinking by Ahis 2 friends Graham Waller and Alan McSeveny, She also won six doubles titles during calling Triple-0, brought Paramedics to the court in her 25 years on the circuit. rapid time. A stroke was first suspected, but ruled Sylvia was as friendly as she was out by the second crew of Paramedics, and Denzil successful, and was popular among was taken straight to Westmead Emergency. A 10-hour operation on his heart enabled him to her fellow players. She will be greatly “live again” - Luckily his brain was not affected. missed. After losing a lot of weight, he has slowly been progressing so that he has been allowed to go home. He is recovering amazingly, in the company of his wife and family members. Slowly does it! Not quite ready yet for pre-tournament warm-ups with his grandson Alex. (Pictured together)
Nonogenarians - Unite!
Marjorie Niccol - whose celebrations were cancelled in the early part of this year, due to COVID restrictions - finally had her day on Feb 19, at Chorley’s Cafe, the Cheltenham Club. Many of her friends could not attend as it was the Ulladulla weekend, our FIRST tourney for 2021. Tim (her son) Two wrongs don’t said she had a ball! Congratulations Marjorie. make a right. They Others are turning 90 at various times; John McCarthy on March 14, Col Luck was 94 on March 11. Doug Corbett will be 95 on November 19. make a Ron Lewis played in Ulladulla, and will be turning 90 in December—well Double Fault! done Ron, to be still playing. Ron encourages his friend Mai-Lien to keep playing too. 11 Eighteen new members, Tennis Seniors NSW
Welcome! Dec 2019 - Dec 2021
Executive:
President Brendon Augustus, George Battese, Mark Battese, Brad Mick Bruton Mobile: ...... 0416 219 656 Cunneen, John Edmond, Kristen Edmond, Mike Fitzgibbon, Vice President David Hay, Tony Porter, Gary Wallace, Aili Wang, Terry Kat O’Callaghan Mobile ...... 0414 973 751 Wilkinson, Jennifer Burns (Annie), John Coonerty, Paul Vice President Etherington, Michael Gavel, Peter Hagan, David Higgs, Graeme Sticka Mobile ...... 0418 402 415 Chien-leng Hsu (Olia), Anil Nair, Saro Nair, Damien Secretary O’Brien, Noel Partridge, Matt Pinchbeck, Tim Seeto, Helen Robyn Castle Mobile: ...... 0400 389 234 Stevens, Steve Turner, Christine Bentley, Charlotte Assistant Secretary Brigel, Anton Enus, Simon Harris, Warwick Prowse Rod Clarkin Mobile ...... 0411 446 338
Treasurer Arthur Olsen Mobile: ...... 0400 525 591
Committee:
Bob Bow Mobile ...... 0430 470 161
Cathy Benson Mobile ...... 0438 721 107
Carol Campling Mobile: ...... 0401 057 866
Craig Edwards Mobile ...... 0412 185 130
Brett Haines Mobile ...... 0402 001 177
Tracey Macmillan Mobile ...... 0419 126 117
John Whittaker Mobile ...... 0417 200 761
State Selectors - From Feb 2020
Men
Mick Bruton ...... 0416 219 656
Arthur Olsen ...... 0400 525 591
Graeme Sticka ...... 0418 402 415
Women
Carol Campling ...... 0401 057 866
Robyn Castle ...... 0400 389 234
National Selectors
Kerry Ballard ...... 0417 069 518
Carol Campling ...... 0401 057 866
TSA Australian Team Administrator
Di Cassel ...... 0426 227 946
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