Northern Mallee moves up the ladder

THE Northern Mallee tennis team are set to finish in the top four of the Inter-regional Country Championships, moving up from second last in last year’s event.

With the 60th annual event returning to Swan Hill for just the third time, the pressure was on the Northern Mallee side to perform.

The side was up to task as multiple Swan Hill players were able to make it all the to their finals.

Young Zac Warne was the runner-up in the Under 12 boys division, Daniel Gardner took out the Veteran’s Consolation singles final and Elise Morrison came second in the Under-18s division.

Their performances have helped the Northern Mallee side reach new heights and Swan Hill Lawn Tennis and Croquet club president Peter Morrison said he was proud of everyone involved in the running of the event.

“The side has improved, we are fourth on the ladder, that is a huge jump for us and we have had some really good results,” he said.

“I am very proud of the Northern Mallee’s efforts to play at this high quality standard and to maintain it for three days.”

Morrison also said the home ground advantage helped the side focus on their tennis.

“It was made a little easier for us, taking out the travel, and knowing the courts well is also a big benefit,” he said.

“It is a great venue and everyone is pleased with how the courts have played … this is the best tennis competition held here, it is of a high standard and this is what makes it so great.”