The Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club Easter Tournament attracted a capacity of 1,200 players, competing in around 1,700 matches on 59 courts over four days.
It was a rain-affected start on Good Friday to Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club’s big annual Easter tournament before one of the best hailstorms seen in Yarrawonga hit the courts.
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But the tournament was once again a fantastic event with 1200 players competing over the four days. Around 1700 matches were scheduled on 59 courts - the biggest event of its type in Australia.
Things didn’t quite go to plan on the first day with the overnight rain meaning a late start for the singles day.
Once play started there was some excellent tennis played before players ran for cover as the hail covered the courts producing a truly amazing spectacle. Everyone in attendance will remember this day for the rest of their lives!
Play was abandoned for the day. Despite some cooler than normal weather, the rest of the tournament ran smoothly and a fantastic time was had by all.
A freak hail storm on Friday forced organisers to abandon tennis for the remainder of the day.
Local Federal MP for Nicholls Sam Birrell had the “great honour” in presenting the shield to open men’s winner Matt Allis who beat local Jack Bassett in the final.
In the open women’s final, a close match was fought out between Nicole Mullen and Louise Field, with Nicole winning in a super tie-breaker.
“The Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club tournament at Easter is an iconic event,” Mr Birrell said.
“It was an amazing effort by the volunteers to get the courts set up on the football oval and the regular courts in such great condition.
Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell presenting the shield to open men’s winner Matt Allis with runner ups Jack Bassett and Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club President Daryll Bennett.
“This tournament is truly unique. The sheer size of the event is unmatched anywhere else. To create such an event relies on hundreds of volunteers. These people cannot be thanked enough.
“Whether it was preparing the ovals in preparation for the tournament, serving food and drinks during the day or assisting in cleaning up, the volunteers were fantastic.”
The tournament box is where all of the action is planned, and it was hectic. At one stage there on Saturday when the tournament is at its busiest there were 21 people helping. A special shout out to the youngsters who assist in the tournament box as they are irreplaceable.
The tireless work of groundsmen headed by Warwick Henderson ensured the facility was always first class. Groundsmen were at the courts from 5am each day over Easter.
For the first time this year local caterers, Sweet and Sour Sisters catered for Easter. Their band of workers were preparing food from 6am, and their work was fantastic.
This year on Saturday night Daine Runnalls entertained the players at the club. It was a fantastic atmosphere as players played on the oval with his tunes in the background.
The club and committee thanked the event sponsors, whose sponsorship allows the purchase of the prizes and trophies which are all cherished. Each of these sponsors has been a long term sponsor of the club and which is extremely appreciated.
Planning is underway for Easter 2024. The tournament will run from March 29 to April 1.
Entries will open on February 1, 2024. It can be guaranteed the capacity of 1200 players will be reached on that day!
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