Matt returns from Pizzey Cup with Silver

Pizzey Cup 2017

Written by Matt de Groot

From the 28^th of April to the 7^th of May I was in Shepparton, Victoria representing Western Australia in tennis at the Jack Pizzey Cup. Going into the event WA were predicted to get fourth with news that Queensland and Victoria were fielding extremely competitive teams.  After the opening ceremony and dinner you could feel the tension within the competitive states as New South Wales had won the event the past 8 years but this year it was no guarantee.

On the first three days of competition WA swept aside ACT, Tasmania and South Australia comfortably, but the match we were waiting for was against Victoria on the fourth day. After a long and competitive tie WA had clinched victory 11-7 in rubbers and had taken victory for the first time in 14 years against Victoria. Our managers were astounded of how well we played to secure the win that now put us in contention for a top three finish.

Day five was the biggest of the whole tournament. Western Australia vs New South Wales. Could WA actually do it? After the doubles tie it was even at 3 rubbers each. NSW were nervous and we could tell as there was actually a chance they could lose a tie. As the singles went on NSW would show why they have won the event 8 years in a row winning eight of the twelve singles rubbers giving them an 11-7 victory. WA was the closest state to beating NSW and we couldn't have been anymore prouder of that.

On the last day of competition it was decided that Western Australia would play Queensland for second place and the silver medal. The tensions were high as this was a usual grudge match in past competitions. After the doubles rubbers it was three rubbers a piece once again. After a few singles Queensland were up 7-4 and only needed three out of the remaining 7 rubbers to win, but with four rubbers being won by WA in three sets we fought on to a 10-8 victory with the last two matches going our way and clinching WA a silver medal.

Pizzey Cup 2017 was an amazing experience and one I will cherish forever. Representing the state was an honor and I couldn't be any prouder of the team and our managers.  Thank you for your contribution to allowing me the opportunity to travel interstate and represent my state, I will be forever grateful and will continue to work hard at my dream.