Club Championship success

Mullingar Tennis Club notes

Eighty members have competed over the past few weeks in this year’s Club Championship, and we’re now down to the final rounds. Organised for the first time in many years by Tennis Captains Alan Jones, Maria McDonnell, and Elizabeth Sitko, the championship has been a triumph, rekindling the club’s spirit and fostering camaraderie. The atmosphere has been fantastic, with players of all levels sharing the courts and enjoying the buzz that high-level tennis brings.

Final day brought a wave of excitement as the club came alive with support for the players and a food truck added to the celebration. In the Women’s Doubles, Catherine Walsh and Noor Elamin faced Elaine Clark and Tammy Duffy in a hard-fought match, with Catherine and Noor claiming victory in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4. Congratulations to all participants and especially to our Women’s A Doubles champions, Catherine and Noor.

On Saturday, the Men’s Singles A quarter-final saw Fergus Murphy beat Conor Walshe in a thrilling match, winning 6-3, 6-4. Meanwhile, in the Women’s C quarter-final, Katie Chapman overcame Yvonne Hayden 6-0, 6-2 in an impressive display of skill.

This tournament has demonstrated the diversity and depth of our club. Nowhere was this more evident than in the participation of three generations of Mullingar tennis players – Pauline Kelly, Catherine Walsh, and Masie Walsh, all enjoying the sport together. Another standout match saw Clare Andrews edge out Nuala Downes in a lengthy three-set battle, winning 6-2, 7-2, 2-10. Well done to all who took part and made it a memorable championship!

Halloween Party: A Monster Match

Our annual Halloween party at Chamber’s on Saturday evening brought some much-needed relaxation for players and members alike, offering a fun-filled night after the “monster” matches of the championship. A mix of creative costumes, music, and entertainment made for a fantastic evening. The Halloween celebration is always a highlight in our social calendar, showcasing that Mullingar Tennis Club is not only a place for sport but also a social hub where people can connect and enjoy each other’s company.

Looking ahead, we’re delighted to announce our Christmas party on 6 December at Canton Casey’s pub in town. Organised by Susan Moore, this festive gathering will feature finger food, drinks, and a lively karaoke competition. We hope to see as many members there as possible, as we celebrate the year and the friendships built through tennis.

Club Growth: A Welcome Development

The club has seen exceptional growth across all age groups and skill levels. Membership now stands at nearly 400, with 250 adults and 150 juniors, marking a 35% increase over last year. The return of Fergus Murphy as head coach and the introduction of Luis Flores Marque and our TY group, who support coaching and media, have contributed significantly to this positive trend.

We’re thrilled to welcome Barry Leonard as our second full-time coach. Barry, currently coaching in Greystones, brings 15 years of experience from Templeogue and Greystones Tennis Clubs, working with juniors and adults alike. Barry will join us in January 2025, strengthening our coaching team alongside Fergus Murphy. Soon, we hope to launch social tennis sessions for beginner and intermediate players, which Barry will help organise. Barry, we are excited to have you join our club and look forward to the expertise you’ll bring.

Refurbishment of the Top Four Courts

As previously announced, our executive committee has decided to refurbish the top four courts, as they have reached the end of their playable life. This major project represents a significant investment, and a vote at a General Meeting will determine the type of surface to be installed.

The court development committee, led by Paul Murphy, has worked out a timeline for this process. On Sunday, 10 November, an information pack will be distributed to members detailing the available surface options. Members will then have a week, until 17 November, to submit any questions. A final pack, including answers to questions, will be shared on 15 December, along with the date for the Exceptional General Meeting.

With our club’s rapid growth, enhancing our facilities is essential. As the saying goes, “To improve is to change; to perfect is to change often.”