Sunraysia tennis on rise

THE cancellation of other community sports in Sunraysia has seen a surge in those wishing to play tennis.

The Sunraysia District Tennis Association (SDTA) has welcomed a number of new players since its season launch two weeks ago.

SDTA president Bill Madafferi said he welcomed the increase and expected numbers to grow even more in the coming week.

“We just want people playing tennis. If that means we are creating new teams to accommodate the increased numbers,  that’s what we will do,” Madafferi said.

“I’ve had lots of calls from people wanting to have a hit just in the last few days which is fantastic – it’s what we were hoping might happen.

“People are looking to stay active and with most other sports cancelled, tennis is giving them that opportunity.”

Former Sunraysia player Sheree Moore is one of those set to return to SDTA competition.

Moore, who is one of the best female players to come out of the region in recent years, is at university in Melbourne, but has returned to Sunraysia because of COVID-19.

The talented right-hander will join the Premier League ranks this Saturday when she lines-up for newly formed side Sarnia Surprises.

Madafferi has welcomed Moore’s return to local tennis and the addition of another team in the SDTA top division.

“It’s great to have some of the area’s former players back – even if it is only for a short time,” Madafferi said.

“It gives us another side in the Premier League which means there won’t be a bye.”

The Surprises will play home matches at the Old Aerodrome Ovals tennis complex and bring the number of teams in Premier League to six.

A new draw will be released this week to accommodate Sarnia Surprises.