The future of tennis players in Milton Keynes looks brighter than ever as two of the club’s top juniors triumphed in the adult titles during the club's prestigious annual Championships Finals Day.
Emily Marshall, 16, and Nicholas Morrell, 14, the top two junior players at Stony Stratford Tennis Club triumphed in the adult titles during the prestigious annual Championships Finals Day (Sunday, September 8). This marks the second consecutive year that juniors have claimed both the Women's and Men's finals, showcasing the remarkable talent and dedication being nurtured at the club.
The Stony Stratford Tennis Club Championships is a much-anticipated event in the club’s calendar, drawing in members of all ages to compete through various preliminary rounds for a coveted spot in the finals. Despite challenging weather conditions, the Finals Day proceeded with thrilling matches that highlighted the high level of competition and skill present among both junior and senior players.
Nicholas Morrell not only claimed the Men’s Senior title but also secured victory in the 16&U Boys’ category, defeating Daniel Lopez 6-2, 6-4 in a competitive match under pouring rain. Emily Marshall retained her Women's Senior title for the second consecutive year, displaying dominance in her final against Debbie Rowland with a convincing 6-0, 6-0 win. Both players have proven to be stars of the future, representing the quality of coaching and competitive opportunities at the club.
Other juniors also showcased their talent in several age categories. In the 9&U group, Anvith Lokesh emerged victorious, winning all his matches, with Sofia Hanak finishing second. The 10&U final saw Sofa Cancel triumph over Sebastian Opera 4-1, 4-1, while Robin Jones narrowly defeated Miguel Dadios 6-4, 7-5 to take the 12&U Boys’ title. The girls’ 14&U final witnessed a flawless performance from Ameya Polavajram, who won 6-0, 6-0 against Aada Singh. Robin Jones and Miguel Dadios also paired up to win the 12&U doubles final in dominating fashion, defeating Siddanth Natesh and Anvith Lokesh 6-0, 6-0.
In the Men’s Final, Nicholas Morrell took on Toli Larosa in an intense match, securing the victory with a score of 6-1, 7-6. The Men’s Over 45 final was a tightly contested three-set match, with Ian Spanswick defeating Mauro Puddinu 4-6, 6-4, 11-9. In the Ladies Over 60’s final, Teresa O’Mahony triumphed over Anne Lambley 6-0, 6-1, and in the Men’s Over 60’s, Mark Meagrow defeated Ian Spanswick 6-4, 7-6.
The adult doubles events also produced exciting results. Julia Carter and Annabel Flett claimed the Ladies Doubles title with a 6-4, 6-0 victory against Rachel Palmer and Natasha Cooke. In the Men’s Doubles, Nicholas Morrell teamed up with Toli Larosa to defeat Mauro Puddinu and Scott MacDonald 6-2, 6-1. Emily Marshall continued her winning streak by partnering with Toli to win the Mixed Doubles against Julia Carter and Mark Meagrow 6-4, 6-1.
The senior players added more drama to the day in the Over 60’s doubles events, with Amanda Burn and Katherine Sawbridge defeating Teresa O'Mahony and Lesley Allen 6-4, 6-1 in the Ladies final. In the Men’s Over 60’s final, Ian Spanswick and Mick O'Mahony beat Simon Burn and George Djuric 4-6, 6-3, 10-0, and in the Mixed Over 60’s, Amanda and Simon Burn defeated Teresa and Mick O'Mahony 6-3, 6-1.
Club Chairman Simon Burn summed up the day by saying, “This has been a wonderful day for the club. We’ve seen some exceptional talent and dedication across all age groups, and it’s exciting to watch the growth of our juniors as they step up and challenge the seniors.”
As the Stony Stratford Tennis Club continues to thrive, it welcomes players of all ages and abilities to join and experience the joy of tennis. For more information and to book a free trial session, visit www.ssltc.co.uk.
