28 February 2017 | Tennis West

The Western Australian State Team travelled to Adelaide for the Foundation Cup Interstate Challenge from the 8^th – 13^th January 2017. The event was conducted at the West Lakes Tennis Club on hardcourts, over four days. The WA Team were: Grace Fisher (Central Districts), Anneliese Mellick (Central Districts), Maddison Lord (South West), Isabelle Kilpatrick (Upper Great Southern), Joshua Carter (Midwest), Lachlan Lord (South West), Scott Tuia (South West) and Samuel McLean (Central Districts).

Australia’s best 13 and under regional athletes from Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Northern Territory, Tasmania and Western Australia competed in a round robin teams event, producing some great tennis across singles, doubles and mixed doubles matches. The competition was strong for our WA athletes, but despite the tough competition, the WA players played some fantastic tennis. Both teams finished in 7^th place, but won many matches across the week, and displayed a high level of sportsmanship and team comradery.

The Fed Cup Foundation coordinated a world class event, with a great on court and off court experiences. The players and team mangers were fortunate to be presented on the centre court at the home of Tennis, Memorial Drive, during the professional tennis event, the World Tennis Challenge prior to the start of play.  The John Fitzgerald and Judy Dalton Medals were awarded to the player with best on court performance, as well as their overall attitude and sportsmanship which is a great honour for the two worthy recipients.  The Teams were able to see watch some world class tennis following the presentation, including  Alexandr Dolgopolov, Tomas Berdych, Mark Phillopusis and Goran Ivanisevic.

The event was a memorable experience for the players, on and off the court, with positive feedback received from players and parents.  Our WA players are motivated to continue to work on their individual tennis development, and become the best tennis players they can be.

Thank you to the WA Women in Tennis Committee and the D’Arcy Slater Foundation for the generous sponsorship of the regional events and the interstate challenge.