By Adrian Ceddia
WHAT began as a small in-house tournament for the Match Point Tennis Academy has turned into a keenly sought-after event for players in the West.
The tournament, run at Altona’s Match Point Indoor Sports Centre, was launched three years ago, attracting a small number of entrants in a few competitions throughout the year.
But it has grown exponentially since then, and this year’s tournament, which has only just been completed, saw almost 100 players enter an expanded version run over the year.
In fact, word has spread across the state and even interstate about the competition, and its popularity will also see it included on Tennis Victoria’s yearly calendar next year.
Most importantly, the competition provides talented players with an outlet to compete in a high-standard competition without having to travel long distances.
This year’s competition had four age categories, including an open men’s division, which was won by James West.
The 2007 season – called the Match Point First Time Free Series – is set for an even bigger revamp, with eight tournaments already locked in for players in under 12, 14, 16 and open levels.
Points will be allocated for each tournament, and the overall winner secures a voucher from tennis racquet manufacturer Prelli and a class trophy.
For more details about the series, log onto the Tennis Victoria website.
Match Point Series winners 2006
Men’s open: James West
18 and under: Patrick Raducanu
15 and under: Stephen Theodorou
12 and under: Jeremy Chea
