Jack Bassett showcased exceptional talent, claiming the Open Singles title. Despite oppressive heat, Jack battled through several tight matches before facing Numurkah’s Dave Poole in the final. After dropping the first set 4–6, Jack fought back to win the second set 6–4 and dominated the super tiebreak 10–5.
Remarkably, Jack and Dave are Saturday afternoon teammates and are regarded as the state’s best players.
Jack and Dave also teamed up to win the Open Doubles final, defeating a Bendigo pairing 8–3 in their fourth match of the day.
These victories capped a stellar weekend for Yarrawonga’s multiple Club Champion.
Xavier Chessells impressed with strong performances, highlighted by a runner-up finish in the 16/U Boys Doubles alongside Numurkah’s Jack Forde.
The pair reached the Grand Final before succumbing to a powerful Barwon team.
Hayley Bennett combined with Stanhope’s Jinaya Nurse to reach the 18/U Doubles final, narrowly losing to another Barwon pairing.
Tess Bassett also had a strong weekend across multiple events, with her standout result being runner-up in the 16/U Mixed Doubles with Jack Forde.
The pair, regular Saturday teammates, played exceptionally well before falling to a Wimmera combination in the final.
Other Yarrawonga players: Lucy Bassett, Fraser Bennett, Daryl Bennett, Grant Lewis, and Tully Ellis, showcased quality tennis against top-level opposition, securing several consolation finals wins.
Congratulations to all participants, and thanks to Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club for hosting the event with excellent courts.
All Stars Classic Tournament
Yarrawonga’s annual All Stars Classic Tournament will run from Sunday, January 18 to Tuesday, January 20. Now in its seventh year, the tournament, run by Tennis Victoria, features both open-age and junior players. Entries are open and will close early in the new year. Local players are encouraged to participate.
Australian Open Hot Shots Day
Juniors from Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club have been invited to attend Australian Open Hot Shots Day on Thursday, January 22. The day includes transport to Melbourne, tennis activities, and seats in John Cain Arena to watch high-level matches, often featuring Australian players in the second round. Seats on the bus are still available.
Easter Tennis Tournament
Yarrawonga Lawn Tennis Club will again host its Easter Tournament, the largest in Australia, across 57 courts over four days. Entries are capped at 1,250 players, with a usual waiting list of around 500. Member entries open January 10, and players are encouraged to start planning doubles combinations.
Tuesday Men’s Tennis
Men’s tennis resumes tomorrow night after a short break. Fill-ins are welcome. The current ladder:
- Edberg 36 | Laver 33 | Becker 31 | Borg 30 | Lendl 26 | Nadal 24 | Agassi 23 | Connors 23 | Wilander 20 | Djokovic 18 | Federer 17 | Sampras 16 | McEnroe 15
Saturday Juniors
Junior programs resume Saturday, January 31. Premier League will continue for older players, while Hot Shots and coaching groups focus on fun and skill development. There are still places available in all programs.
Wilby & District Tennis Association
The Wilby and District competition provides social tennis for all ages and abilities. After Round 9, the ladder stands:
- Telford 57 | Tungamah 51 | Savernake 42 | Burramine 36 | Wilby 17 | Mulwala 13 Play resumes Friday, January 30.
Thursday Ladies Tennis
The Thursday Ladies’ competition will resume Thursday, February 5, running for six weeks. Players enter individually, and teams are created to cater to all abilities.
Goulburn Murray Tennis Association
The Association resumes after the Christmas break (except Division 1). Yarrawonga’s Division 3 team has made a successful return after six years, with key players including Danielle Lawrence, Angela Mitchell, Renne Byrne, Xavier Chessells, and Thomas Lawrence.
Yarrawonga maintains a close partnership with Numurkah Lawn Tennis Club, allowing top players to compete in Division 1 and Division 2.
- Numurkah Division 2: mid-table, relying on Tess Bassett, Ellen Bruce, Hayley Bennett, and Daryl Bennett
- Numurkah Division 1: third place, aiming for a fifth consecutive premiership, with Grant Chappell, Jack Bassett, and Lucy Bassett in key roles
Rock Up & Play Sessions
Social tennis is held every Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. for ladies and Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. for men. There is no obligation to attend weekly, but once players try it, they often return regularly.
