By Joanna Campe
With one team representing Lilydale in the finals this season, the boys were keen to play well and make the grand final next weekend.
Junior Open Singles Doubles 3 v East Croydon-Kilsyth
At the end of the standard season, Lilydale finished on top of the ladder with East Croydon finishing in fourth place.
With the finals, all registered players get to participate so for Lilydale it was Adam Paladino, Ari Marappan, Alex Paladino, Ryan Taylor and Joshua Jamieson. East Croydon-Kilsyth was represented by Riley McDonald and Sarah Nimbs. In an unfortunate turn of events their third player was not available to play. This meant that the win was guaranteed for Lilydale before a ball was hit. This was disappointing however all the sets were played in good spirits. Lilydale gained match play practice for the following week’s grand final and East Croydon teamed up with Lilydale to play some “mixed team” doubles matches to ensure that everyone got to play on the day.
It was a strong start for Lilydale winning both the live singles 6-1, 6-3. In the first “mixed team” doubles it was Ryan from Lilydale who teamed up with Riley from East Croydon to take on Ari and Adam from Lilydale. A social yet competitive match was played with Lilydale winning the set 6-3. In the second “mixed team” doubles it was Alex who teamed up with Sarah from East Croydon. Good rallies were played in a friendly and sometimes chatty match.
Lilydale progress to the grand final up against Upwey South – who finished second on the ladder after the regular season. A fitting grand final!
Result: 6-1, 6-0, 6-0, 6-3, 6-3, 6-0
Lilydale Tennis club welcomes all players of any age and ability. For information on how to join Lilydale Tennis Club please visit play.tennis.com.au/lilydaletennisclub.
For all coaching enquires (Juniors and Adults) please contact Andrew at Pro Touch Tennis Academy at ptta.com.au/contact.
