Wet, wet, wet. The poor weather of last week really put a stop to most tennis activities in Newcastle.
However, on the other side of the globe, tennis players and fans are gearing up for The Championships Wimbledon, with its grass courts and all the tradition is regarded as the unofficial world championships.
It makes great viewing, so you tennis fans be prepared for those weary eyes, it’s worth it. With Rafael Nadal withdrawing we could see Lleyton Hewitt advance further in the draw than first anticipated.
We know Hewitt will give us someone to cheer for as he always puts up a great fight.
It’s looking very much like the Roger Federer show but can Andy Murray be the first British winner of Wimbledon since Fred Perry in 1939?
The pressure on Murray will be enormous and to succeed will be a great test of his mental toughness.
Others, such as Tim Henman, a great player, have wilted under the pressure, so good luck Murray.
For Murray to win Wimbledon, it would be a wonderful day.
The women’s draw is very open.
Serena Williams with her awesome power and where the rallies are shorter and fitness is not so critical, deserves her favouritism.
Look out for Maria Sharapova to advance through the draw and the controversy when the administrators sanction the screamers/grunters.
Lake Macquarie Tennis Centre’s touring team competed at the national ranking tournament in Wollongong last weekend.
In a very strong tournament Mitchell George and Daniel Burdekin reached the semi-finals of the 16-plus under boys doubles.
Joel Herbert, Sam Roffey and Maddison Blick played some outstanding tennis to produce some excellent results.
The touring team members gained valuable experience and returned eager to prepare for the Country Championships in Forster during July.
The Hunter Academy of Sport tennis squad were privileged to have Darren Forbes of Sporting Edge Australia, to put them through a physical testing program last Saturday at The University’s Forum.
The squad was tested for strength, agility, flexibility and endurance.
Sam Roffey was outstanding in the beep test as was Daniel Burdekin.
Chris Corkery and Tara Hamilton achieved great results in the core strength test.
All squad members now have a benchmark of their various physical strengths and weaknesses and were very keen to return home and work at improving their physical condition.
It was interesting to see those performing well with physical testing also figure prominently when reporting on successes at tournaments.
The modern tennis player needs such a physical commitment every time he or she hits the ball, complete physical fitness is such an important component of success.
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