The All Stars Tennis Tournament returned to Yarrawonga for its eighth edition last week, drawing players from across southeast Australia. The standard of play was exceptionally high throughout the event.
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In the Open Men’s Singles, Melbourne’s Marcus Nield showcased his class with a 6–1, 6–2 victory over Yarrawonga’s Jack Bassett. Nield has enjoyed a stellar summer, also winning the Warrnambool and Albury tournaments.
In the Open Women’s Singles, Melbourne’s Jemma Carbis claimed the title, defeating Jaimin Mandi 6–3, 6–4 in the final.
The Open Men’s Doubles final was a standout match, with Jack Bassett and Aadithya Pai combining superbly to defeat brothers Marcus and Ryan Nield 7–5, 6–4.
Yarrawonga’s Tess Bassett, partnering with Rhiann Eddy, won the Women’s Doubles, defeating Amber Brown and Jaimin Mandi 6–2, 6–1 in the final.
Junior success
Local juniors performed strongly, with many reaching finals or winning titles.
The 12/U Girls final was a thrilling contest between Taylah Chessells and Annabelle Buerckner. In a match described as one that “had to be seen to be believed,” Taylah won 7–5, 5–7, 14–12.
Tess Bassett also enjoyed a strong tournament, finishing runner-up in the 16/U Girls Singles.
In the 10/U Boys Doubles, Ernie Buerckner and Beau Lawrence narrowly defeated Reid Humphry and Tristan Eaton to claim the title.
Xavier Chessells and Thomas Lawrence played well to reach the 16/U Boys Doubles final but fell just short in the decider.
Similarly, in the 16/U Girls Doubles, Billie Buerckner and Kiera Buerckner produced excellent tennis and finished as runners-up. In the 12/U Boys Doubles, Tully Ellis also achieved a strong result as runner-up.
The event was well supported by local sponsors, whose ongoing support is greatly appreciated. The canteen, run by Yarrawonga Lions, once again impressed with sensational food and lively banter with players.
The courts were in excellent condition, and Tournament Director Ben Greenall praised the surface, commending the club’s groundsmen for their outstanding work.
Tennis Victoria has confirmed the All Stars Tournament will return in 2027, with planning already underway.
Hot Shots day a huge success
Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club juniors were thrilled to attend the Australian Open Hot Shots Day on Thursday, January 22. The event, organised by Tennis Victoria, gives rural juniors the chance to experience the Australian Open.
With tennis growing in popularity in Yarrawonga, the club easily filled the quota of 80 tickets supplied by Tennis Victoria, making Yarrawonga the largest participating group. The bus departed early at 4:30am.
Upon arrival in Melbourne, players and parents enjoyed exclusive access to the AO Ballpark. Once court action began, the Hot Shots were treated to premium seats in John Cain Arena, where they witnessed some outstanding tennis.
Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club thanked Tennis Victoria for the opportunity, and all attendees were extremely appreciative.
Tuesday Men’s Tennis
In excellent conditions, Tuesday Men’s Tennis enjoyed a strong session with plenty of quality rallies that mirrored the Australian Open.
Chief organiser Ash Wheaton was on long service leave and absent from the night. As a result, not all results were entered into Match Centre, and the scribe was unable to provide a full report.
Needless to say, the pizza was amazing as always, and the refreshments were cold and refreshing.
Saturday Juniors
The junior program has paused for the Christmas break. Hopefully, Christmas stockings were filled with tennis racquets and balls to keep the kids thinking about tennis through January. Members are reminded they have full access to the courts and can play at any time.
Junior Tennis will resume on Saturday, January 31, with another season of Premier League for older players, offering highly competitive match play. Hot Shots and coaching groups will continue to focus on fun and skill development. Places are still available in all programs, and new players are encouraged to join.
Wilby and District
The iconic Wilby and District Tennis Association resumes this week, continuing to provide social tennis for a wide range of ages and abilities in the region. The competition has helped many players develop their skills over the years.
This Friday, top-placed Telford will host Burramine at Yarrawonga, while Mulwala visits Tungamah. On Saturday, Wilby will travel to Savernake.
After Round 9, the ladder stands as follows: Telford 57, Tungamah 51, Savernake 42, Burramine 36, Wilby 17, Mulwala 13. It appears the powerhouses Telford and Tungamah will be hard to beat come finals time.
Thursday Ladies Tennis
The Thursday Ladies competition finished its first season earlier in December. The next season will commence on Thursday, February 5, and will run for six weeks. Names are entered individually, and teams are created to cater for a range of abilities.
Goulburn Murray Tennis
The Goulburn Murray Tennis Association resumes this week following a break for the long weekend. This pause allows association members to participate in regional tournaments.
Rock Up and Play Sessions
Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club hosts social, aggregate-style tennis sessions on Tuesday mornings at 9:00a.m. for ladies and Wednesday mornings at 9:00 a.m. for men.
There is no obligation to attend weekly, but once you try it, you may find it hard not to return.