THE Champion of Champions tennis tournament was held in Inverell at the weekend and Sara Campbell, Sam Buckley, Shaun Mills, Brodie Dawson and Camille Maunder were all on the court.
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Shaun has made it to the state finals after playing well in seven matches.
Margie Buckley Tennis Academy, Coach Margie Buckley said she will step up his training.
“We will practice serving and spend a lot more time on the courts,” Buckley said.
In Inverell, the top eight players from the North West and top eight from the North Coast played against each other in a round robin tournament.
The top two players from that event all move on to Penrith for state finals later this year.
Sam played six round robin games he said he came out strong.
“As the day went on I played a bit better,” he said. Unfortunately it wasn’t enough to secure him a spot in the state finals.
“I am excited to be a reserve, I know I played better then I did last year.”
Camille played about eight rounds of round robin she was surprised with how she played.
“I played well because I beat all the other girls in my group, even the best girl from the Gold Coast,” Camille said.
“I always love playing in these tournaments because it makes me feel like I’m a part of something.”
Even though Camille won she will not be attending state because they don’t have a competition for her age group.
“I’m disappointed that I can’t play in state, I know I could handle state competition.”
Brodie came in to the competition as a reserve player.
He played six rounds but unfortunately lost.
“I lost all my games, but I did play my best.” he said
“Shaun and Sam played really well and they deserve their wins.”
Brodie will be heading to Tamworth with his school’s tennis team.
Shaun felt that the champion of champions was different this year.
“I was pretty happy about how I played, but I know I could have done better,” Shaun said. “But I am pretty happy with my scores.”
While pleased to be going to Penrith, Shaun would have liked other local players going too.
“I’m really sad to not see Camille play in state, she’s like my little sister.”
Buckley also lamented that Camille was unable to play in state.
“As a coach it’s really disheartening, it’s really disappointing as she tried so hard all year.
“They really did play their best tennis yet.”
