Wimbledon
Tradition is upon us again and as tennis races into the 21st century with bright colours and youthful
exuberance it is always wonderful to see how the players humble themselves as they get caught
up in the magic atmosphere of Wimbledon. It is here that the players realize that the game of
tennis has been around longer than they have and that they are but a chapter in this legacy.
Federer is once again favourite with Safin and Roddick hot contenders, there are also a few big
servers like Karlovic and Dent who will be hoping to surprise the big guns, Hewitt and Henman will
be prepared for a fight. The ladies title is open with Sharapova looking well prepared,
Henin– Hardenne is in good form with the rest of the Russians, the Williams sisters and Davenport
in pursuit. Although predictions are never easy, "I mean who would have predicted that Anakin
Skywalker became Darth Vader" Gareth predicts a Federer, Henin-Hardenne victory.
Junior League Champions
The Gauteng Central Junior League is over and the A and E teams won their leagues. The D team
lost their last match by a few games but can still be crowned champs as we await other results.
The F team only lost 1 game, the B team won 3 and lost 2 and the C team lost all 5 but came
close in a league that pitted our all girls side against an all boys sides in most of the matches.
It was great to watch how the teams supported each other and built up a great camaraderie
during the 5 weeks. Thanks to all the managers for all their work in organising and transporting
the teams and making the teas. It was much appreciated.
Holiday Tournament
During the July holidays Advantage T.A. will run a round robin mini tennis and tennis tournament
from 13th July – 15th July and on the 16th a knock-out tournament. The tournament will be held
at Old Parktonians TC and players must meet there but Randburg TC will be used for the older
pupils if necessary. The mini tennis tournament will run from 08:30 - 09:30 every day. The tennis
tournament will run from 09:30 – 13:00. The round-robin format will be a TR3 ranking round-robin
and it is therefore essential that players who enter are there for all 3 days, results will be
forwarded to the TR3 head office.
Extra Lessons
During the June/ July holidays group lessons will continue on Sat mornings at the following times.
Minis 8.15-9.00
Level 1 9.00-10.00
Level 2 10.00-11.20
Level 3 11.20-12.40.
These classes will take place on 25 June, 2 and 9 July and are specifically for the private school
pupils and those who need to make up lessons. On the 16 July there will be a tournament held
at Old Parktonians 8.30-9.30 (minis/level 1) and 9.30-13.00 for the older pupils. Private school
pupils who cannot make the Saturday classes are welcome to work in extra lessons during
June and in August when they are on holiday. During the holidays private lessons will be arranged
between coach and pupil at a suitable time for both parties. Gareth and Rachelle will be playing the
Nelspruit & Umhlali Opens between the 29th June and 9th July.
American Dream
Vlatko left Advantage Tennis Academy in Sept 2002 and has found fame and fortune and a wife
in the land of opportunity. He has been made Head Tennis Pofessional at the Wainsborough
Country Club where he coaches and runs the 15 court tennis centre that also boasts indoor
tennis facilities and a US PGA golf course. He will marry the girl of his dreams on August the 13th.
Gareth will be leaving on the
4thAug-2nd Sept to attend the wedding, play in a tournament and
take in the US Open at the end of the month. He is making a video for Vlatko with wishes from
all who knew him. While Gareth is away Ryan will be coaching in his place. His private school
lessons will be coached by Kevin, Rachelle or Ryan in the mornings and his government privates
and group lessons will be coached by Ryan in the afternoon.
Nationals & OFS Super 7
Advantage T.A. will be taking a tour to Bloemfontein for the OVS Super 7 and the Junior Nationals.
The tournaments range between U12, U14, U16 and U18 age groups and we may take two groups
for the Super7 (23rd -27th) and Nationals (27th-2nd) depending on the response.
The tour is between the
22nd Sept -2nd Oct for those wanting to play in both tournaments.
It is an advantage to play in both and get accustomed to the conditions. Players will need to start
preparing themselves for some tough tennis. Please let your coach advise you on whether
you are ready for tennis at this level.
Club
Please will all Advantage T.A. pupils take note that the clubhouse and bathrooms need to be left
as clean as possible at all times. Celina works at the club on Tuesdays and Saturdays and cups
and chairs must be left as tidy as possible.