Tennis
T
he 2002 Tennis season has been one of rebuilding with most members of the senior teams new this year. There was not a lot of success on court this year, but the spirit and sportsmanship that developed during the year meant that in many ways this year can be seen as one of our best ever. The discipline of the boys at training and their willingness to play at their best each week despite some lopsided score lines was a credit to all. We have gained much experience throughout this season and if the boys are prepared to stick at it success is sure to follow. A good blend of youthful talent and experience will see the club continue to be competitive throughout all years in the coming years. The First VIII despite not having a win for the season were a very competitive unit, with a blend of youth and experience. The team consisted of three Year 12, three Year 11's and two Year 10's. Our captain James Isaia provided good leadership on and off the court, winning many of the battles he encountered. The other consistent winner during the year was Adam Russell who showed he would be a strong contributor in the future. With five of the eight members returning for next year, the light at the end of the tunnel continues to get brighter. The Second VIII tennis team had an excellent and enjoyable season. They had three memorable victories the most of any team at the school. The effort shown by the majority Year 11 outfit will ensure that the experience gained will serve the first team well next year. The results of the Third Tennis Competition do not portray an accurate picture of the season. Although the Thirds only won twice, they were highly competitive and forced their opponents to fight for every point. Training sessions were well attended and the players strived hard to improve their skills level. The camaraderie within the group was excellent and they were extremely supportive of each other. This season was great for Year 10 Tennis and the spirit shown was on many occasions was nothing less than inspirational. The performances throughout the season have ensured that the Firsts and Seconds will have a strong team in seasons to come. Although finishing fifth, and winning two games, the team always put in spirited performances..
This was a successful season for both the 9A’s and 9B’s teams because they learned to be competitive and many "fringe" players forced their way into both sides. It was a season where all boys learned that participation is what sport is all about. I have been impressed with the unbridled enthusiasm of the Year 9's to improve their knowledge of the game, their individual and team skills and to learn correct etiquette for competitive tennis. Both teams won a few games and went close in all of them. There are excellent signs that tennis is on the way back at Trinity and the Year 9's will certainly play their best in the future of that return. Well done boys for a particularly enjoyable season The Year 8 season opened positively with a healthy number of students enlisted for the cause. Still, only a small number of these players had developed their skills through outside coaching and playing. Relatively inexperienced A and B squads had some great success. The boys showed courage, determination and good sportsmanship throughout the season. We now are starting to build a base to launch tennis back to the dizzy heights of the eighties. Thank you to Mrs McGibbon, Mrs Lane, Mr Duffy, Ms Mizen, Mrs McLernon, Mr Rousset, Mr Messer Jr, Ms McAleer and Mrs Prior for they're efforts and support as managers this year. Each of these managers remarked on the co-operation and behaviour of their teams. All players proved worthy ambassadors of Trinity College. This year we again bolstered our coaching stocks by enlisting the help of Mr Ian Walker. Ian worked with the Year 8’s, 9’s and 10's with much success. This gave the boys the opportunity of getting advice from a profession coach which many boys have not had contact with in the past. This contact will continue in the coming years and give many boys an opportunity to hone their skills. Across all teams the boys always had an enjoyable time playing and on all occasions showed excellent sportsmanship. Much thanks needs to go to all parents who came out to support their sons and cheer the teams on. Special thanks to the senior mums for providing the best morning teas in the PSA. Mr Damian Messer First VIII Coach
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