The North West entered girls’ and boys’ teams in the 12 and under, Tony Roche and Jan O’Neill Cups, with a strong representation of Gunnedah players. The boys’ team, managed by Armidale’s Justin Sherriff, came across some tough matches and placed 11^th overall, however, local young gun Cooper Wilkinson received an award for tactical understanding of the game. 

The remainder of the team was made up of Gunnedah’s Vitorio Sardinha, and Tamworth’s Max Girot and Ryan Simfendorfer.

The girls’ team of Tamworth’s Avril Gardiner, and Gunnedah’s Isabelle Moore, Anna Bishop and Maya Gallagher, placed ninth overall after winning a play-off match in the final round.

Girls’ team manager and Gunnedah coach Craig Louis said the event proved a hard slog against some “tough metro teams”.

“The girls played an awesome game and their attitude and efforts were exceptional,” Louis said.

“There was some fantastic double matches and excellent team work.”

Louis said the teams events were great “confidence boosters” for the young tennis players.

“The teams events are a fantastic concept where kids have a chance to play the best kids in their age groups and in the state,” he said.

“And build confidence in sportsmanship, teamwork and develop their games in a competitive and safe environment.

“Having a strong representation of Gunnedah players in both teams was very pleasing to see for all the Gunnedah coaches.”

Gunnedah’s junior tennis players are now preparing for an upcoming local competition to begin in April following the school holidays.

The Friday night matches will be run under a new format by Craig Louis and Jodie Moore.

“We are excited to introduce the new format, with hopes to boost junior competition numbers,” Louis said.

More information will be available on the club’s Facebook page closer to the competition.