Tennis Round 2 vs St Aloysius’
Last weekend’s matches were contested against St Aloysius’ College. St Aloysius’ must be congratulated for their competitive play and for winning the majority of matches contested on the day. Trinity’s winning teams included the 4th and 5th IV, the 10Cs, 8Cs and Ds and the 7As. A plethora of injuries and absences stretched our reserves across the board; however it was great to see the courageous efforts of those called up to fill the gaps.
The understrength 1st IV travelled to Tennis Cove early, dodging some intermittent precipitation along the way. Once at the courts the rain ceased, paving the way for some excellent playing conditions. The doubles started positively for our first pairing of Max Nguyen (12Yo) and Spyridon Konidaris (12Sc) who were able to win their first set easily. Their good play remained for the majority of the second set allowing them the opportunity to serve for the set at 5-4. Unfortunately, a very tight service game loss, allowed the opposition pairing back into the contest and into a tiebreaker which Trinity eventually lost. The reverse pattern of doubles play was evident on the adjacent court with our second pairing commencing the fixture with trepidation and indecision. To their credit, Finn Taylor (10La) and James Kim (11Ar) were able to reverse their form and start building pressure on their confident opponents. Our students pushed hard, forcing another tiebreaker late in the second set only to lose narrowly. In the singles the match of the day was that played by our captain, Max, who despite not playing at his best, was able to win ugly to the tune of 6-4. Some passages of play were as good as I have seen over numerous seasons with Max unleashing numerous powerhouse groundstrokes to bamboozle his shell-shocked opponent. In the other matches James played well, registering a close 4-6 loss against a quality opponent. The final result was a 2-6 loss to Trinity.
The 2nd IV was also defeated by 2-6. We were unfortunately out-played in the doubles component of the match, losing all sets contested. This did not deter Max Knauer (11Ho) and Mitchell Reid-Queeney (10Ar) in their singles, with both students registering solid wins. Both students dictated terms with solid serving and probing groundstrokes that prevented their opposition gaining a foothold in the competition. A massive thank you must be extended to James Perkin (12Yo) who was called up on the morning to fill in for an absent team member. James, despite competing against a much higher team and with a completely new partner, was competitive all day and was not disgraced in any way or form. His on-court performance and sportsmanship were exemplary and must be commended.
Jeremy Dykgraaff | MIC Tennis
3rd and 4th IV Report
Apart from a fighting loss in the No.1 doubles contested by Solomon Khoury (12 Ar) and Aleks Gavrilovic (11 Yo), the 3rds were outclassed by St Aloysius’ in all departments. The awards for focus, consistency and strategy were all won by the opposition.
The story was different in the 4ths who built a fine victory on the doubles and singles triumphs of Ben Kwan (11He) and Julian Chin (11He). While neither Ben nor Julian always put the ball away when they could have in the doubles, they did play some spectacular rallies, with Julian showing amazing reflexes and Ben more than once terminating a point with a spectacular winner down the line. In their respective singles matches they were even more dominant, and both boys deserve the warmest congratulations.
Ashley Lucas | Coach
5th and 6th IV Report
The 5ths and 6ths both displayed a commendable performance against a strong St Aloysius’ side. The 5ths were able to see out a very tight win through a great performance from the double paring of Archer Guest (12Mu) and Matt De Dominicis (11Fo), whilst also having a little help from a forfeited doubles and singles match. More so, a special mention must go to Hamish Gray (11Ho) who despite not being able to play as his opponent didn’t show up, displayed great enthusiasm for the sport and encouraged his teammates. The 6ths however were not so lucky as St Aloysius’ dominated the court. Special mention must go Marcus Lorenzato (11Fo) who played an outstanding singles match even though it resulted in a loss. Best of luck to both teams next week.
Owen Duke | Coach
10A and B report
With numerous team changes this weekend due to Covid and injury, the team had a difficult task against a solid St Aloysius’ side. Despite this, Trinity fought well and did themselves proud despite being outperformed on the day. Special mention must go to Harry Cotton (10Du) for what was the closest result on the day. He played some special shots, ripping forehand winners on numerous occasions but was unfortunate to go down 4-6.
The Bs fared slightly better, managing two wins from their fixtures. Alex Nero (10Ta) and Keegan Van (10St) made a strong start in their doubles match but couldn’t maintain their momentum, losing 3-6. However, Alex was able to convert his form into a result in his singles match, outclassing his opponent 6-3 with brilliant stroke play from the baseline and relentless hunger to chase down every ball. Lucas Blum (10Ar) also played an exceptional match in his singles fixture, dominating his Alo’s counterpart 6-2. He combined his consistency with injections of power at the right time to stay in control of the match and never looked in any doubt.
Congratulations to all the boys for holding their heads up high in what was a difficult weekend for the team.
Ritvik Dinesh | 10A/B Coach
Year 10C and 10D Tennis Report
This week, looming clouds and light rain did not dampen the moods of the 10C and 10D squads at the Trinity Tennis Centre. Reflecting on their experience of the previous week and having time with Coach Danielle to work on serve during training helped boost the boys’ confidence to play against the teams from St. Aloysius’. And what a start we had! Our Ds doubles pairings of Ethan Hudson (10Du) and James Chan (10Yo), and Alson Zhou (10Hi) and Lucas Dinh (10We), engaged in two entertaining matches that showcased growing skill and much improved serving. Ethan and James, fast becoming the new Woodbridge and Stoltenberg of Trinity Grammar, won their match decisively 6-2, while Alson and Lucas were unable to take the win, going down 6-3. Ethan followed up with a confident singles win, demonstrating flair, stamina, and excellent sportsmanship. In his first competitive singles match, Lucas played well against his opponent, going down 6-4. Both James and Alson were unable to follow up in their singles matches, learning how important it is to have and maintain stamina on court.
The 10C squad enjoyed some singles success, with both Elliot Vilner (10Mu) and Ronald Ye (10La) winning in matches that displayed their ability and power during some entertaining base line rallies and net play. Bryan Yu (10Ta) contested a tight match against his opponent, unable to capitulate on a break point to win the match at 4-5, 15/40. Eventually going down 7-5, Bryan will no doubt learn about the value of focus and self-discipline for his next match. Rounding off the Cs singles matches, Elie Charbel (10Du) struggled to match his opponent’s aggressive serve and forehand, going down 6-1. Fatigue plagued the Cs doubles matches, and as recognised by Elliot during his doubles match: “We need to communicate”. Now that the C team has greater confidence in their ability and with their service game, we will turn our focus towards fostering collaboration to work more effectively in pairs.
Success came in many shapes and forms today and our players also realised their limitations and challenges for the remaining contest in the weeks ahead. Most importantly, these young men left the courts with a sense of achievement and an enjoyment for the sport.
Claudia Tessadri | Coach
9A and B Report
Our 9As team was unfortunately defeated by the Aloysius’ players. Chris Lowe (9Ho) and Joshua Lee (9La) managed to win their singles, with an especially strong forehand shown by Chris. Unfortunately, we were unable to win our doubles matches, taken down by the opponent 7-5 in the A1 and A2 match and 6-1 in the A3 and A4. Andy Zheng (9Yo) and Daniel Lok (9Ke) performed solidly but were unfortunately triumphed over by the opposing team.
The 9Bs team unfortunately had an overwhelming defeat this weekend, only winning one set in doubles by Michael (9Mu) and Waylon (9Yo). We were only able to take an accumulative five games off in the singles, with Ethan La (9La) and Fouad Deiri (9Ho) taking off three and one games respectively. Overall, it was a good showing for a team where many were playing up a few ranks.
Sunny Tang | Coach
Year 9C and 9D Report
The 9Cs played some good matches but unfortunately lost this round 6 sets to 0. Matthew Sefein (9Ho) and Edward Layson (9Ke) tried their best over the weekend. During the doubles, the boys had good communication, but they didn’t have good placement at times. At some points they were returning serves too close to the service line and other times not playing close enough to the net. Matthew was playing very well; he was hitting some strong and consistent groundstrokes and he was playing well from the baseline. Edward was hitting some good groundstrokes but needs to work on finishing the point at the net and his placement and movement on the court when returning. Solomon Hindle (9WJ) and Christian Beke (9Du) played a tough few matches over the weekend. Solomon tried hard over the weekend; he had a tough match up against St. Aloysius’ but was still playing consistently and to the best of his ability. He just needs to try to improve upon his groundstroke pace and consistency when serving. Christian also had a tough matchup. He at times hit some good groundstrokes but he needs to work on his serves and movement on the court.
The 9Ds played well over the weekend, but unfortunately lost 6 sets to 0. Hannan Manche (9Du) and Matteo Portolesi (9Ar) played well during their matches over the weekend. Hannan was hitting consistently and at times hit some good groundstrokes. However, he needs to try and improve upon his serves and his footwork with his groundstrokes. Matteo tried his best. He was also hitting consistently but similarly to Hannan he needs to work on his footwork, form and consistency. Alexander McGrath (9St) and Oliver St George (9Ta) tried their best in their doubles but need to improve upon communicating and covering all parts of the court. Alexander was hitting some good groundstrokes, but he needs to improve on starting the point stronger by improving upon his serces. Oliver also did a good job over the weekend. He was hitting consistently but he needs to try to work on his form with his serves and groundstrokes.
Tristan Kontonis | Coach
8A and B Report
The 8As faced a very consistent Aloysius’ side this week, going down 6 sets to 0. Noah Figliuzzi (8Fo) and Ishaan Sharma (7Ar) struggled to maintain consistency throughout the match and were overwhelmed by a plethora of unforced errors at the net resulting in a loss. Noah was able to regain composure in his singles, but the lack of confidence and lack of consistency allowed his opponent to take the win. Similarly, Ishaan played a great game to singles, challenging his opponents’ weaknesses, but the unforced errors allowed his opponent to take the win 6-3. Alejandro Molina (8Ke) and Toby Zuzza (8Ho) played a great game of doubles despite the loss. They served well and communicated efficiently on the court. However, the lack of confidence in groundstrokes and unforced errors gave their opponents the winning edge to take the match 6-3. In singles, Alejandro performed well, hitting strong groundstrokes and slices. However, the lack of consistency, passive tennis and overhitting allowed his opponent to secure the win. Toby played with great vigour and effort; but the plethora of unforced errors allowed his opponent to gain an advantage to take the win 6-2.
The 8Bs were able to challenge the Aloysius’ side today, but came short of sets, losing two sets to four. Hugh Williams (8St) and Alessandro Re (8La) played with great effort, but the errors at the net and lack of solid communication allowed their opponents take the win 6-2. Hugh played very consistently in the singles, getting back every ball his opponent challenged him with. This allowed Hugh to come away with a 7-2 win in the tiebreak after a very close match. Alessandro struggled to remain consistent in his groundstrokes, where the unforced errors gave his opponent the opportunity to take the win. Ashvin Nagaratnam (8Yo) and Dara Ritchley (8Ho) were unable to find an opportunity to attack in the doubles, which gave their opponents an opportunity to attack the ball at the net. This forced them into a tough position, giving their opponents the win. In singles, Ashvin was able to regain composure after his doubles match, where his consistent serving and groundstrokes helped him pull away with a great 6-4 win. Dara played a great match of singles, attacking the ball whenever he had an opportunity. However, the lack of consistency and poor positioning allowed his opponent to regain the advantage to take the win 6-3.
Edward Lai | Coach
8C and D Report
The 8Cs faced a very strong Aloysius’ side this week, winning four sets to two with a game score of 32-31. Axel Lee (8Yo) and Leo Wong (8WJ) played a brilliant game of doubles, where their consistent groundstrokes and serves allowed them to pull away with a 6-4 win. Axel maintained the momentum from doubles, striked the ball well and maintained a high second serve percentage, winning 6-4. Similarly, Leo played an intense set of singles, where he was able to maintain composure and pull off a stunning 8-6 win in the tiebreak. Julian Grehan (8St) and Alexander Hales (8Ar) played a great game of doubles despite a close 5-7 loss. They fought for every ball and competed well, which is to be applauded. In singles, Alexander has once again proved his strong will to win, closing off the match 6-4. Julian played well this week, though the low first serve percentage allowed his opponent to grab the win.
The 8Ds displayed dominant tennis against a consistent Aloysius’ side this week, winning 5 sets to 1. Gavin Qian (8Du) and Geordie Brown (8Ta) played well against strong opponents, where their strong communication and teamwork helped them win 6-1. In singles, Gavin displayed dominant tennis, where his consistent groundstrokes and smart ball placement helped him win 6-0. Despite the efforts of Geordie, his opponent was more consistent on the day and played very well, which resulted in a loss for Trinity. Similarly, Aston Tran (8WH) and Noah Adrian-Green (8He) played a dominant set of doubles, winning 6-3. Aston was able to break down his opponents’ weaknesses and secure a dominant 6-1 win. Similarly, Noah’s consistency on court allowed him to pull away early in the set and secure a strong 6-2 win.
Edward Lai | Coach
Year 7A and B report
This week the weather was kinder and the keen Tennis players of the 7A and 7B teams found their way across Sydney bright and early to face St Aloysius’ College. In the Doubles matches, the Trinity teams got off to a flying start, in particular Nathan Della Torre (7Yo) and Marcus Kuit (7Ho) who won 6-0, Ryan Qin (7Yo) and Thomas Joannou (7Du) who won 6-2, and Orlando Ang (7WJ) and Sebastian Musumeci (7Ke) who fought back valiantly from 2-5 down to narrowly lose the set 5-7. The players displayed some good consistency and shot-making and are improving their understanding of Doubles play. In the Singles matches, there were again some fabulous results and wonderful match play. Special mention goes to Marcus Kuit (7Ho) on his impressive 6-0 result and to Ryan Qin (7Yo) on his 6-3 win. The SAC players were determined to stem the tide – they rallied and began to win a few matches. The Trinity players responded with determination and good sportsmanship and they gave of their best. At the end of play, the 7A team was victorious four sets to two and the 7B team was defeated 0 sets to six. We welcomed Nicholas Servos (7Sc) and Aaron Gullotta (7WH) into the mix this week and they acquitted themselves very well.
Jessica Spratt | Coach
7C and D Report
The 7Cs had a close game this weekend. For them, this was their very first Saturday game against another school. Unfortunately, St Aloysius’ put up a good fight and we narrowly missed the win by a few games. Liam Jennaerlawson (7Fo) and Sam Telfer (7He) both emerged victorious in their singles matches, winning 6-4 and 6-0 respectively. In addition, Sam also won his doubles match with Andrew Lin (7WJ), pulling off a solid 6-2 win. Unfortunately, St Aloysius’ proved too much to handle for Peter Papadopoulos (7He) and Andrew to handle in their singles and were defeated. Overall a promising start to the season by the 7Cs.
Unfortunately, the 7Ds were defeated this weekend and were unable to clutch a set against the solid Aloysius’ team. It was a solid showing from Jaemin Yoo (7St) who managed to take four games off his opponent but ultimately ended up falling 6-4. Ben Loughnan (7Ke), William Carnemolla (7Ke), and Jared Chan (7Mu) all had a solid showing, but St Aloysius’ proved to be stronger on the day.
Sunny Tang | Coach
