Ready, set, go

It was all systems go for the opening of the summer season at MTA last week. On Saturday morning the courts were abuzz with junior players under the guidance of new Juniors Coordinator Keira McDonagh while the Hot Shotters were having fun on the blue court with coach Liam Delany. The new Pickleball program began on Monday with multiple sessions to meet the high demand. Club members were welcomed, and teams announced via email in September. Earlier, at the recent AGM, a new committee was formed with President Robert Williams re-elected, and Vice President Brendan Purcell, and Secretary Jemma Blackall also re-elected. Michael Whytcross was elected as Treasurer replacing Tim Ross who had served as Treasurer for 17 years. Liza Karras was re-elected as the club’s Member Protection Officer. Alice Kilpatrick, Jo O’Brien, Nick Ferguson, Jenny Bell and Brendan Grant renominated and were re-elected along with new members Kimberley Marsden, Courtney O’Loughlan, Anna Speirs, Keira McDonagh and Bron Sly. Three life members departed, Tim Ross, Rhonda and Bob Carpenter and were thanked for their extended time on committee. Jo O’Brien was awarded the Wendy Campbell Club Person Shield 2025 for her work on the junior tennis program. In his President’s report Williams gave thanks to every member of the volunteer general committee who, in their own selfless way, have delivered membership growth, a robust financial performance and a successful year in all areas of MTA operations. He applauded the significant growth in junior tennis participation, the club’s strong financial performance, and spoke about the new initiative to offer Pickleball. Club by-laws were revised to include this complementary racquet sport. The new committee met after the AGM and again in October to discuss the many organisational matters for the new season including funding projects, facilities improvements and competition events. The club was successful securing funds for a new electric barbeque (Helen Haines Stronger Communities Grant), resurfacing of the blue hardcourt (Bendigo Bank - Community Bank Mansfield and District), replacement roof (Mansfield Shire), and new nets (SIAG - Mansfield Shire). We are grateful for their support. The night competition begins this week with Competition on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday night at 7pm. Social Tennis runs on Wednesday's at 1:00pm all year round. All welcome and no requirement to sign up; just turn up and enjoy. Our website has much information about club activities and membership so check it out: play.tennis.com.au/mansfieldtennisassociation Teams and draws are on the website under Competitions and social members and emergency players can sign up on the membership page. Policies and protocols can be found under Club Info for players to familiarise themselves.

Ready, set, go

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