Tennis courts around the Tomaree Peninsula will be filled to capacity this weekend.
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More than 200 of NSW and ACT’s best senior tennis players are set to hit the courts in Nelson Bay, Fingal Bay, Shoal Bay, Soldiers Point and Boat Harbour between Friday and Sunday for the Dave Matthews Seniors Tournament.
Hosted by Nelson Bay Tennis Club, the tournament, for tennis players aged 35 and above, is the last seniors event on the calendar for the year.
“We definitely host one of the biggest seniors tournaments in the state,” Steve Taylor, the tournament director, said.
“The location, the people are great, you can bring your family, the tennis, I think that’s what makes this so popular. It’s a great weekend.”
The tournament was established by Nelson Bay Tennis Club member Dave Matthews about 17 years ago.
The tournament was named after Matthews when he died.
Since it was first established the event has only grown in popularity.
This year’s field has 232 entrants, 40 more than last year, of which 80 are new to the Bay-based tournament.
For the first time, a contingent from ACT will play in the tournament.
Players also hail from along the coast and from Dubbo, Inverell and Tamworth.
There will also be a contingent of about 20 Nelson Bay players entered into the tournament this year.
Taylor said spectators could expect to see some competitive tennis across the three days.
“Some of the best women players in the state are coming this year and the men’s field is quality, too,” he said.
“The men’s singles and 35s will have some big hitters, as will be men’s doubles. The women’s 35s will be one to watch.”
Tennis will be played at Nelson Bay tennis courts, located in Dowling Street, from 8am on Friday and will wind up about 6pm on Sunday.
Tournament events will also be played at the Fingal Bay, Shoal Bay, Soldiers Point and Boat Harbour courts on Saturday and Sunday.
Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer will play and exhibition match at the Nelson Bay courts from 4.30pm on Friday.
Palmer and his regular tennis partner Luke Ramkovic will play Nelson Bay Tennis Club president Rod Stubbs and coach Blake Denison.
“This will be worth watching. They are all great tennis players,” Taylor said.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
